Senior Division, No. 293, Third Quarter, 1968

THE BLESSING OF DAILY STUDY

"The beauty and riches of the Word have a transforming influence on

mind and character."—Christ's

Object Lessons,

page 132.

"There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than the

study of the Scriptures.— . . If God's Word were studied as it should be,

men would have a breadth of mind, a nobility of character, and a stability

of purpose rarely seen in these

times."—Steps to Christ,

page 90.

My Daily Lesson Study Pledge

As one who greatly desires to improve his knowledge of the Scriptures, I

pledge myself to the careful and prayerful study of some portion of my Sabbath

School lesson each day of the week.

Nam4

Lesson Titles for the Quarter

Trials and Character Development

The Problem of Temptation

The Practical Character of Christian Experience

The Sin of Partiality

Faith and Works

Teachers of Present Truth—Wise and Unwise

Use and Abuse of the Talent of Speech

True and False Wisdom Contrasted

The Carnal Mind and the Spiritual Mind

10.

The Folly of Exalting Self

11.

Warning Against Improper Acquisition and Use of Wealth

12.

Patient 1 ndurance and the Coming of Christ

13.

Closing Admonitions

Note.—All

Scripture references quoted from Phillips are taken from

The New Testa-

ment in Modern English

by J.

Macmillan CoMpany.



< ,

All Scripture references quoted from the N.E.B. are ',from

The New English. Bible,

Cambridge University Press, 1961. Used by permission Of the Oxford University Press,

Inc., New York City.

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Sabbath School Lesson Quarterly

STUDIES IN THE BOOK OF JAMES

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

"Authorship.

There is insufficient evidence

in the epistle of James to warrant any

definite conclusion as to the identity of its

author. The NT has many references to

men by the name of James. This name was

very common among the Jews. .

"It is reasonable to suppose that the au-

thor of the epistle of James is one of the

persons by that name already mentioned

in the Scripture record, rather than an-

other James, entirely different from any

otherwise known. The tone of the intro-

duction in ch. 1:1 implies that the writer

speaks as one well known to those whom

he addresses, and that he speaks with rec-

ognized authority.

"Although according to the Gospel nar-

ratives all the Twelve were closely associ-

ated with the Lord, James, the son of

Zebedee, was the more prominent of the

two apostles by that name. Only a very

few writers have ever attributed the epistle

to him. But even this possibility seems ruled

out by the early date of his death (A.D.

44)."—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 7,

pp. 497, 498.

Ellen G. White refers to "James the

apostle!

(Testimonies,

Vol. 9, p. 91), as

the one who wrote the book. It is not clear

from the Volume 9 statement or from simi-

lar statements (see

Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 248, 384;

Spiritual Gifts,

Vol. 2, p.

143;

Testimonies,

Vol. 5, p. 639;

S.D.A. Bi-

ble Commentary,

Vol. 7, p. 936) whether

"James the apostle" refers to James the

brother of John (Matthew 10:2) or "James

the son of Alphaeus" (Matthew 10:3), who

were numbered among the twelve apostles,

or to James the brother of Jesus (Matthew

13:55), who presided over the first church

council in Jerusalem (Acts 15:13), and

who was a recognized leader of the early

church. In any case, the author was prom-

inent, and the believers accepted his epistle

as an inspired communication from the

Lord.

"There is no certain method of determin-

ing the date of the epistle. . . .

"This epistle is one of practical Chris-

tianity, showing what results or works a

genuine, living faith will produce in the life

of a disciple."—S.D

.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 7, p. 500.

Lesson 1, for July 6, 1968

Trials and Character Development

MEMORY VERSE:

"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is

to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice,

inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when His glory shall

be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy."

Peter 4:12,

13.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Ministry of Healing," pages 469-482; "Christ's Object Lessons,"

pages 328-365; "Selected Messages," Bk. 1, pp. 336-339; "S.D.A. Bible Com-

mentary."

STUDY AIM:

To discover how One who is preparing to meet Jesus in peace at His

coming can relate to trials in such a way that these experiences will contrib-

ute to the development of character.

E3]

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Ministry of Trials

To be met with joy. James 1:2-4;

. Matt. 5:10-12; 1 Peter 4:12, 13.

Faith tested by trials. James 1:3;

1 Peter 1:7.

Trials produce patient endurance.

James 1:3 (last part) ; Rom. 5:3.

Patient endurance, a prominent

characteristic of God's people.

Rev. 14:12.

Trials cheerfully endured perfect

character. James 1:4.

II. Wisdom in Meeting Trials

6. God gives wisdom to meet trials.

James 1:5; Prov. 3:5, 6.

Must ask for wisdom. James

1:5

(first part) ; Matt. 7:7, 8.

Must believe God's promises.

James 1:6 (first part) ; Mark 11:24.

Hesitation and doubt nullify

prayer for wisdom. James 1:6 (last

part), 7.

10.

Doubting reveals a divided heart.

James 1:8.

III. Trials Bring Humility and

Steadfastness

11.

Trial exalts the poor. James 1:9;

Matt. 5:3.

12.

Trial humbles the wealthy.

James 1:10, 11.

13.

The reward for steadfastness under

trial, eternal life. James 1:12; Rev.

2:10; Matt. 24:13.

THE LESSON

used of temptation to sin, in the sense of

a test applied by Satan, as a result of which

character is revealed. God puts a man to

the test in order to strengthen faith; Satan,

as he did in the case of Job and of Christ

in the wilderness, puts him to the test in

the hope of destroying faith. Like

peiras-

mos,

the English word

temptation

was also

formerly used in the sense of testing as

well as temptation to sin.

The New English Bible

translates James

1:2-4 as follows: "My brothers, whenever

you have to face trials of many kinds,

count yourselves supremely happy, in the

knowledge that such testing of your faith

breeds fortitude, and if you give fortitude

full play you will go on to complete a

balanced character that will fall short in

nothing."

"All trials that are received as educators

will produce joy. The whole religious life

will be uplifting, elevating, ennobling, fra-

grant with good words and works. The

enemy is well pleased to have souls de-

pressed, downcast, mourning and groaning;

he wants just such impressions made as to

the effect of our faith. But God designs

that the mind shall take no low level. He

desires every soul to triumph in the keep-

ing power of the

Redeemer."-Testimonies,

Vol. 6, pp. 365, 366.

2. What do trials accomplish for

faith? James 1:3; 1 Peter 1:7.

Introduction

"Ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's

building." 1 Cor. 3:9. Be sure to read the

General Introduction.

"This figure represents human character,

which is to be wrought upon, point by

point. Each day God works with His

building, stroke upon stroke, to perfect the

structure, that it may become a holy temple

for Him. Man is to cooperate with God.

Each worker is to become just what God

designs him to be, building his life with

pure, noble deeds, that in the end his

character may be a symmetrical structure,

a fair temple, honored by God and man."

-Testimonies,

Vol. 8, p. 173.

The Ministry of Trials

1. How is one who believes in

Christ admonished to meet the trials

of life? Why? James 1:2-4; Matt. 5:

10-12; 1 Peter 4:12, 13.

NoTE.-The Greek word

peirasmos,

trans-

lated "temptations" in James 1:2, basically

means a

"test" applied with

the purppse

determining the quality and thus the

value of an object, or the character of

person. In the New Testament it is also

NoTE.—Trials provide the Christian with

an opportunity to exercise, and thus to

strengthen, faith. James speaks of a vic-

torious faith that has successfully faced

the varied trials of life, and each trial makes

the faith of the victorious Christian stronger

than it was before.

What valuable characteristic is

developed in the life of the believer

who by faith triumphs over trials?

James

1:3

(last part); Rom. 5:3.

NoTE.—The word translated "patience"

in James 1:3 and Revelation 14:12 (see

question 4) means "steadfast endurance."

"Many who sincerely consecrate their

lives to God's service are surprised and

disappointed to find themselves, as never

before, confronted by obstacles and beset

by trials and perplexities. They pray for

Christlikeness of character, for a fitness

for the Lord's work, and they are placed

in circumstances that seem to call forth all

the evil of their nature.. . . Like Israel of

old they question, 'If God is leading us,

why do all these things come upon us?'

"It is because God is leading them that

these things come upon them. Trials and

obstacles are the Lord's chosen methods of

discipline and His appointed conditions of

success."—The

Ministry of Healing,

pages

470, 471.

How is steadfast endurance or

"patience" related to the acceptance

of the three angels' messages of Reve-

lation 14:6-11? Rev. 14:12.

NOTE.—Those who accept and adhere to

the three angels' messages develop the

quality of patient endurance that will en-

able them to remain true to God through

earth's last great crisis.

"Severe trial endured by the grace of

God develops patience, vigilance, fortitude,

and a deep and abiding trust in God. It is

the triumph of the Christian faith that it

enables its follower to suffer and be strong;

to submit, and thus to conquer; to be

killed all the day long, and yet to live; to

bear the cross, and thus to win the crown

of glory."—The

Acts of the Apostles,

page

468.

What is the final stage in the

development of character under the

impact of trials cheerfully borne?

James 1:4.

NOTE.—"The Lord wants His people to

stand far above selfish interest. He wants

them to conquer the temptations they

meet. He calls for the communion of saints.

He desires His workers to stand under His

supervision. He will plane and polish the

material for His temple, preparing each

piece to fit closely to the other, that the

building may be perfect and entire, wanting

nothing."—Testimonies,

Vol. 7, p. 131.

Wisdom in Meeting Trials

When trials press upon the be-

liever, where will he find the wisdom

he needs to meet them triumphantly?

James 1:5; Prov. 3:5, 6.

NoTE.—"Lean to your own understand-

ing, dear brethren, as you make your way

through the world, and you will reap sor-

row and disappointment. Trust in the Lord

with all your heart, and He will guide your

steps in wisdom, and your interests will

be safe for this world and for the next."—

Testimonies,

Vol.

p. 427.

What must the believer do in

order to obtain wisdom? James 1:5

(first part); Matt. 7:7, 8.

NOTE.—"Human help is feeble. But we

may unite in seeking help and favor from

Him who has said, 'Ask, and it shall be

given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock,

and it shall be opened unto you.' . . .

Then let' us come to God, pleading for the

guidance of His Holy Spirit. . . . Let our

requests be mingled with praise and thanks-

giving."—Testimonies to Ministers,

page

485.

What condition is attached to the

asking for wisdom? James 1:6 (first

part); Mark 11:24.

[5]

NOTE.—"This petition for wisdom is not

to be a meaningless prayer, out of mind as

soon as finished. It is a prayer that ex-

presses the strong, earnest desire of the

heart, arising from a conscious lack of

wisdom to determine the will of God.

"After the prayer is made, if the answer

is not realized immediately, do not weary

of waiting and become unstable. Waver

not. Cling to the promise. . . . Watch and

pray. Be steadfast and the prayer will be

answered; for is it not God who has

promised? . . . You are plainly told that

if you waver you need not think that you

shall receive anything of the Lord. A

caution is here given not to become weary,

but to rest firmly upon the promise. If

you ask, He will give you liberally and

upbraid

not."—Testimonies,

Vol. 2, p. 131.

How will persistent doubt and

hesitancy affect the prayer for wis-

dom? James 1:6 (last part), 7.

NOTE.—"His promise is only to those

who are willing to follow the Lord wholly.

God does not force the will of any; hence

He cannot lead those who are too proud

to be taught, who are bent upon having

their own way. Of the double-minded man

—he who seeks to follow his own will,

while professing to do the will of God—it

is written, 'Let not that man think that he

shall receive anything of the Lord.' James

1:7."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

page 384.

10.

What does a doubting attitude

toward God's promises reveal con-

cerning a man? James 1:8. Compare

Matt. 6:24.

NOTE.—A double-minded man is not sure

whether God means what He has promised

and can be trusted to do it.

"The exhortation is given, 'Purify your

hearts, ye double-minded.' While professing

to be Christians, many have the mold of

the world upon them, and their affections

are not set upon God. They are double-

minded, making an attempt to serve God

and mammon at the same time; but the

world's Redeemer has declared, 'Ye can-

not serve God and mammon' (Matt. 6:24).

By trying to serve two masters, they are

unstable in all their ways, and cannot be

depended upon. To all appearances they

are serving God, while at the same time in

heart they are yielding to the temptation

of Satan and cherishing sin. They may

speak words that are smoother than oil,

yet their hearts are full of deception and

deceit in all their practices. Professing to

be righteous, yet they have a heart that is

desperately wicked.

"Of what profit is it to say pleasant

things, to deplore the work of Satan, and

yet at the same time to enter into the ful-

fillment of all his devices? This is being

double-minded."—Ellen G. White Com-

ments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 7, p.

938.

Trials Bring Humility and

Steadfastness

11.

In what way may the poor man

rejoice when he experiences trials?

James 1:9; Matt. 5:3.

NOTE.—"Of

low degree. . . .

'In humble

circumstances,' and thus, of lowly rank or

employment, in a condition of dependence

or of poverty. This phrase is in contrast

with 'the rich' in v. 10. This condition of

economic difficulty is a trial many are

called upon to face. . . . These circum-

stances were a trial in the sense that they

tested his 'faith' in God and his allegiance

to God. 'The brother of low degree' is ever

tempted to be jealous and resentful toward

his 'rich' brother, and the 'rich' brother to

think himself superior to the 'brother of

low degree' and to take advantage of him.

"Rejoice.

Literally, `glory,' boast.' . . .

With the 'wisdom' (v. 5) that God gives

us we can view life in proper perspective.

We can see the things of time in the light

of eternity. . . . The progress a man makes

spiritually is vastly more important than

the progress he makes economically. The

`glorying' consists in the realization that

despite the lack of earthly possessions, God

compensates the humble Christian far be-

yond the joys that the fleeting possessions

of earth give."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on James 1:9.

12.

In what may the man of means

rejoice? James 1:10, 11. Compare

Heb. 11:24-26.

f 6 l

NoTE.—"James is emphasizing in vs. 9

and 10 the fact that regardless of ma-

terial circumstances the Christian brother,

whether rich or poor, will find his most

rewarding cause for rejoicing in the priv-

ileges of the Christian faith."—S.D.A.

Bi-

ble Commentary,

on James 1:10.

13.

What reward is offered the be-

liever who endures the trials of life?

James 1:12; Rev. 2:10; Matt. 24:13.

Questions for Meditation

How do I react to the trials of every-

day life?

Do I doubt God's Word, or do I

believe that He means what He says and

expects me to act in harmony with His

revealed will?

How often do I ask God for wisdom

to meet specific problems in Christian

living?

Lesson 2, for July 13, 1968

The Problem of Temptation

MEMORY VERSE:

"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal

life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23.

STUDY HELPS:

"Steps to Christ," chapters "Faith and Acceptance," and "The Test

of Discipleship"; Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing," pages 91-95, 116-

119 (1943 ed., pp. 136-140, 170-173); "Testimonies," Vol. 4, pp. 609-627.

STUDY AIM:

To become alert to the subtle nature of the process whereby Satan

would, if possible, deceive "the very elect," and to erect safeguards against

his wiles.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Source and Nature of

Temptation

The error of attributing trials and

temptations to God. James 1:13

(first part).

God has no dealings with evil.

James 1:13 (last part).

How to avoid temptation. Matt.

26:41; Luke 22:40; 1 Cor. 10:13.

Perverted desires, the root of

temptation. James 1:14; Jer. 17:9.

Temptation defined. James 1:14.

The danger of harboring wrong

desires. James 1:15. •

A warning against following one's

natural inclinations. James 1:16.

11.

The Source of All Good Things

All good things come from God.

James 1:17 (first part) ; Matt. 7:11.

God is constant and invariable.

James 1:17 (last part).

10.

How to resist temptation and

demonstrate the power of truth.

James 1:18; Matt. 4:4.

11.

Caution against responding to

promptings of natural heart.

James 1:19, 20.

12.

Our safeguard against temptation.

James 1:21.

THE LESSON

Introduction



love of God and their need for continual

communion with the Saviour, unless they



It is not possible for men to appreciate



realize the true nature and origin of temp-



as fully as they should the greatness of the



tation and its heaven-appointed remedy.

The Source and Nature

of Temptation

What warning is given concern-

ing trials and temptations? James 1:13

(first part).

NoTE.—"Temptation is enticement to sin,

and this does not proceed from God. . . .

"God in His great love is seeking to

develop in us the precious graces of His

Spirit. He permits us to encounter obstacles,

persecution, and hardships, not as a curse,

but as the greatest blessing of our lives.

Every temptation resisted, every trial

bravely borne, gives us a new experience

and advances us in the work of character

building. The soul that through divine

power resists temptation reveals to the

world and to the heavenly universe the ef-

ficiency of the grace of

Christ."—Thoughts

. From the Mount of Blessing,

pages 116, 117.

Why is it illogical to suggest that

trials and temptations come from

God? James 1:13 (last part). Compare

Hab. 1:13 (first part).

NOTE.—Phillips translates James 1:13

thus: "For God has no dealings with

evil." The Greek word rendered "cannot be

tempted" implies a lack of experience with

temptation, and thus that God has not

known evil by experience. He was, as the

writer of Hebrews points out, "in all points

tempted like as we are"; thus He can "be

touched with the feeling of our infirmities."

Heb. 4:15. But this experience with tempta-

tion is not what James refers to. Rather, his

point, as the New English Bible translates

it, is that God "is untouched by evil";

therefore it is unreasonable to attribute

temptation to Him.

"James shows that it is inconceivable

that God would tempt men to sin. He can-

not be tempted with the desire to tempt

men to do

evil."—S.D.A. Bible Commen-

tary,

on James 1:13.

As the context clearly indicates, temp-

tation to sin is here under consideration.

(See verses 13-15.)

What can we do to avoid tempta-

tion? What will God then do for us?

Matt. 26:41; 1 Cor. 10:13.

NOTE.—"We should pray that God will

not permit us to be brought where we shall

be drawn away by the desires of our own

evil hearts. In offering the prayer that

Christ has given, we surrender ourselves

to the guidance of God, asking Him to

lead us in safe paths. . . .

"If we commit ourselves to God we

have the assurance, He 'will not suffer

you to be tempted above that ye are able;

but will with the temptation also make a

way to escape, that ye may be able to bear

it.' 1 Cor.

10:13."—Thoughts From the

Mount of Blessing,

pages 117, 118.

Why do Satan's temptations so

often appeal to the human heart?

James 1:14; Jer. 17:9.

NOTE.—"Every man is tempted when he

is drawn away of his own lusts and en-

ticed. He is turned away from the course

of virtue and real good by following his

own inclinations. If the youth possessed

moral integrity, the strongest temptations

might be presented in vain. It is Satan's

act to tempt you, but your own act to

yield. It is not in the power of all the

host of Satan to force the tempted to

transgress. There is no excuse for sin."—

Testimonies,

Vol. 4, p. 623.

How does James define tempta-

tion? James 1:14.

"What is temptation?—It is the means

by which those who claim to be the chil-

dren of God are tested and tried. . . God

permits temptation to come to His people

today, that they may realize that He is

their helper. If they draw nigh to Him

when they are tempted, He strengthens

them to meet the temptation. But if they

yield to the enemy, neglecting to place

themselves close to their Almighty Helper,

they are overcome. They separate them-

selves from God. They do not give evidence

that they walk in God's way."—Ellen G.

White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commen-

tary,

Vol. 1, p. 1094.

What is the result of cherishing

the desires of the natural heart? James

1:15.

]

NoTE.—"When Satan is permitted to con-

trol the mind that will not be ruled by

Jehovah, he will lead it according to his

will, until the man who is thus in his

power becomes an efficient agent to carry

out his desisms."—Ellen G. White Com-

ments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 2,

p. 1019.

"If we would not commit sin, we must

shun its very beginnings. Every emotion

and desire must be held in subjection to

reason and conscience. Every unholy

thought must be instantly repelled. To your

closet, followers of Christ. Pray in faith

and with all the heart. Satan is watching

to ensnare your feet. You must have help

from above if you would escape his de-

vices."—Testimonies,

Vol.

p. 177.

"All should guard the senses, lest Satan

gain victory over them; for these are the

avenues to the

soul."—Testimonies,

Vol. 3,

p. 507.

In view of the enticing nature of

temptation, what caution does James

utter with respect to following one's

natural inclinations? James 1:16.

NOTE.—"Satan's studied purpose is to

blind the eyes of man in regard to God's

part in the history of sin. Most of this

world's philosophies and religions are built

on false concepts by which Satan seeks to

distort the character of God. James would

not have Christians believe that God is

responsible for sin and the evils that sin

produces."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

James 1:16.

The Source of All Good

Things

To what gracious attitude on

God's part does James point as con-

clusive evidence that God does not

tempt men? James 1:17 (first part);

Matt. 7:11.

NorE.—Instead of enticing men to do

evil, God is the source of everything that

is good.

What assurance does James give

of the constancy of God? James 1:17

(last part). Compare Ps. 89:34; Heb.

13:8.

NOTE.—"The rainbow about the throne is

an assurance that God is true; that in Him

is no variableness, neither shadow of turn-

ing. We have sinned against Him and are

undeserving of His favor; yet He Himself

has put into our lips that most wonderful

of pleas: `Do not abhor us, for Thy name's

sake, do not disgrace the throne of Thy

glory: remember, break not Thy covenant

with us.' Jer. 14:21. He has pledged Him-

self to give heed to our cry when we come

to Him confessing our unworthiness and

sin. The honor of His throne is staked for

the fulfillment of His word to

us."—Testi-

monies,

Vol. 8, p. 23.

10.

What is the secret of being able

to resist temptation? James 1:18;

Matt. 4:4.

NOTE.—"Let them [the youth) take the

Word of truth as the man of their counsel,

and become skillful in the use of 'the

sword of the Spirit.' Satan is a wise gen-

eral; but the humble, devoted soldier of

Jesus Christ may overcome him."—My

Life Today,

page 315.

11.

In view of what God has done

for him, what should the Christian

do? James 1:19, 20.

NoTE.—"The mind should be elevated to

dwell upon eternal scenes, heaven, its

treasures, its glories, and should take sweet

and holy satisfaction in the truths of the

Bible. It should love to feed upon the

precious promises that God's Word affords,

draw comfort from them, and be lifted

above trifles to weighty, eternal things."—

Testimonies,

Vol. 1, p. 164.

12.

With what safeguard against

temptation has God provided us?

James 1:21. Compare Matt. 4:4, 7, 10;

Heb. 4:12.

NOTE.-"

'The prince of this world

cometh,' said Jesus, 'and hath nothing in

Me.' John 14:30. There was in Him noth-

ing that responded to Satan's sophistry.

He did not consent to sin. Not even by a

thought did He yield to temptation. So it

may be with us. . . . So long as we are

united to Him by faith, sin has no more

dominion over us. God reaches for the

hand of faith in us to direct it to lay fast

hold upon the divinity of Christ, that we

may attain to perfection of character.

"And how this is accomplished, Christ

has shown us. By what means did He

overcome in the conflict with Satan? By

the Word of God. . . . Every promise in

God's Word is ours. 'By every word that

proceedeth out of the mouth of God' are

we to live. When assailed by temptation,

look not to circumstances or to the weak-

ness of self, but to the power of the Word.

All its strength is yours. Thy Word,' says

the psalmist, 'have I hid in mine heart, that

I might not sin against Thee.' By the word

of Thy lips I have kept me from the paths

of the destroyer.'

"—The Desire of Ages,

page 123.

Questions for Meditation

Am I alert to my need for constant

communication with God in order to avoid

being lured into temptation?

Do I recognize that my heart is by

nature sinful and wicked?

Has the Word of God become my

defense against all the attacks of the

enemy?

Lesson 3, for July 20, 1968

The Practical Character of Christian Experience

MEMORY VERSE:

"Not everyone that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into

the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in

heaven." Matthew 7:21.

STUDY HELPS:

"Testimonies," Vol. 4, pp. 56-60; "Fundamentals of Christian Educa-

tion," pages 456-466; "Testimonies to Ministers," pages 120-131.

STUDY AIM:

To gain a better understanding of what constitutes practical religion.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Danger of a Passive Attitude

Admonition to be active Christians.

James 1:22 (first part).

Result of failure to be active.

James 1:22 (last part)..

The danger illustrated. Matt. 7:

21-27.

II. The Forgetfulness of the Passive

Hearer

A man and a mirror. James 1:23.

Result of a passive attitude.

James 1:24.

III. The Relation Between Law and

Liberty

6. "The law" reveals sin. Rom.

3:20-22.

The desire for freedom from sin.

Rom. 7:23, 24.

How freedom from sin is obtained.

John 8:32, 34.

Continual obedience brings con-

tinual blessing. James 1:25.

IV. Superficial Versus Genuine

Religion

10.

Mere knowledge of truth not

enough. James 1:26; Matt.

12:34-37.

11.

Knowledge must be accompanied

by love. 2 Thess. 2:10.

12.

Genuine religion is practical.

James 1:27 ;Isa. 58:6, 7, 10 ;

Matt. 25:34-40.

13.

Genuine religion leads to avoidance

of all that stains or defiles.

James 1:27 (last part).

[ 10

THE LESSON

and yet are not doers of it. We are not to

be selfish in anything. Every phase of the

Christian life is to be a representation of

the life of Christ. If it is not, we shall hear

the terrible words, 'I know you not.'"—

Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible

Commentary,

Vol. 7, p. 962.

How did Jesus illustrate the

danger of hearing but not doing?

Matt. 7:21-27. Compare Rom. 2:13;

1 John 3:7.

The Forgetfulness of the

Passive Hearer

To what is the passive hearer

compared? James 1:23.

Introduction

Christianity is not a creed to be learned;

it is a life to be lived. Jesus "went about

doing good, and healing all that were op-

pressed of the devil; for God was with

Him." Acts 10:38. This is the privilege and

responsibility of all who follow Him.

"He who called the fishermen of Galilee

is still calling men to His service. And He

is just as willing to manifest His power

through us as through the first disciples.

However imperfect and sinful we may be,

the Lord holds out to us the offer of part-

nership with Himself, of apprenticeship

to Christ. He invites us to come under the

divine instruction, that, uniting with Christ,

we may work the works of God."—The

Desire of Ages,

page 297.

The Danger of a Passive

Attitude

What attitude are believers coun-

seled to take toward God's revealed

will? What are they warned against?

James 1:22 (first part).

NOTE .—"The reason why our people have

not more power is that they profess the

truth, but do not practice it. They have but

little faith and trust in God. . . . The Lord

claims the strength of brain, bone, and

muscle; but it is too often withheld from

Him and given to the world. The service

of God is made a secondary matter, while

worldly interests receive prompt attention.

If the mind were stayed upon God and

the truth exerted a sanctifying influence

upon the heart, self would be hid in Christ.

If we realized the importance of the truth

which we profess to believe, we should feel

that we have a sacred mission to fulfill, a

responsibility involving eternal results. All

temporal interests would yield to this."—

Testimonies,

Vol. 4, pp. 613, 614.

What is the result of neglecting

the admonition to be active Chris-

tians? James 1:22, last part. Compare

Rev. 3:17.

NOTE.—"The Laodicean message applies

to all who profess to keep the law of God,

NOTE.—"The law is God's great moral

looking glass. He is to compare his words,

his spirit, his actions, with the Word of

God."—Testimonies to Ministers,

page 125.

What is the result of a passive

attitude toward truth? James 1:24.

NOTE.—"He did not receive the impres-

sion made upon his mind when comparing

his course of action with the great moral

looking glass. He did not see his defects

of character. He did not reform, and for-

getting all about the impression made, he

went not God's way, but his way, continu-

ing to be unreformed."—Fundamentals

Christian Education,

page 460.

The Relation Between Law

and Liberty

What is the function of God's

law in relation to sin? Rom. 3:20-22.

NoTE.—As used by Bible writers, the

term "law" usually includes all of God's

revealed will, especially as set forth in the

writings of Moses, the first five books of

the Old Testament. Mere outward compli-

ance with God's requirements, says Paul, is

worthless; that would be legalism. Through

"the law" a man comes to a "knowledge of

sin," but he can attain to justification only

through "the righteousness of God, which

is by faith of [in] Jesus Christ," to which

"the law and the prophets" bear witness.

What urgent desire is produced

in man by the realization that he is

the slave of sin? Rom. 7:23, 24.

NOTE.—"Man was originally endowed

with noble powers and a well-balanced

mind. . . . But through disobedience, his

powers were perverted, and selfishness took

the place of love. His nature became so

weakened through transgression that it was

impossible for him, in his own strength, to

resist the power of evil. He was made

captive' by Satan, and would have re-

mained so forever had not God specially

interposed....

"It is impossible for us, of ourselves, to

escape from the pit of sin in which we are

sunken. Our hearts are evil, and we cannot

change them. . . . 'The carnal mind is

enmity against God: for it is not subject

to the law of God, neither indeed can be.'

. Rom. 8:7. Education, culture, the exer-

cise of the will, human effort, all have their

proper sphere, but here they are powerless.

They may produce an outward correctness

of behavior, but they cannot change the

heart; they cannot purify the springs of

life. There must be a power working from

within, a new life from above, before men

can be changed from sin to holiness. That

power is Christ. His grace alone can quicken

the lifeless faculties of the

soul."—Steps to

Christ,

pp. 17, 18.

What does a knowledge of and

love for truth bring to the sincere

believer? John 8:32, 34. Compare

Rom. 8:1, 2.

How does James describe the

man who does what he finds written

in "the perfect law of liberty"? James

1:25. Compare John 13:17.

NOTE.—"Those who have genuine love

for God will manifest an earnest desire to

know His will and to do it. . . . The child

who loves his parents will show that love

by willing obedience; but the selfish, un-

grateful child seeks to do as little as pos-

sible for his parents, while he at the same

time desires to enjoy all the privileges

granted to the obedient and faithful. The

same difference is seen among those who

profess to be children of God. Many who

know that they are the objects of His

love and care, and who desire to receive

His blessing, take no delight in doing His

will. They regard God's claims upon them

as an unpleasant restraint, His command-

ments as a grievous yoke. But He who is

truly seeking for holiness of heart and life

delights in the law of God, and mourns

only that he falls so far short of meeting

its requirements."—The

Sanctified Life,

page Si.

Superficial Versus Genuine

Religion

10.

How is it possible to know

whether a man's religion is genuine

—whether he has been transformed

by the grace of God? James 1:26;

Matt. 12:34-37.

11.

What else is necessary besides

the knowledge of the truth? 2 Thess.

2:10. Compare John 14:6.

Nora.—Jesus said, "I am . . . the truth."

He who does not love truth, therefore, re-

jects Jesus, and by so doing places himself

in danger of eternal death.

12.

What part do works of mercy

and love have in religion? James 1:27;

Isa. 58:6, 7, 10; Matt. 25:34-40.

NOTE.—"In placing among them the help-

less and the poor, to be dependent upon

their care, Christ tests His professed fol-

lowers. By our love and service for His

needy children we prove the genuineness of

our love for Him. To neglect them is to

declare ourselves false disciples, strangers

to Christ and His love."—The

Ministry of

Healing,

page 205.

[

12]

"Practical religion breathes its fragrance

everywhere. It is a savor of life unto life."

-Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible

Commentary,

Vol. 3, p. 1157.

13. What is said of the character

of those who practice pure religion?

James 1:27 (last part). Compare Rev.

14:4, 5.

NOTE.

-"Jesus

is coming; and will He

find a people conforined to the world? and

will He acknowledge these as His people

that He has purified unto Himself ? Oh,

no. None but the pure and holy will He

acknowledge as His. Those who have been

purified and made white through suffering,

and have kept themselves separate, un-

spotted from the world, He will own as

His."-Testimonies,

Vol. 1, p. 133.

Questions for Meditation

Am I an active or a passive Christian?

Is my study of the Bible as thorough

as it should be to enable me to be a faith-

ful witness for Christ?

Have I obtained freedom from the

slavery of sin?

Lesson 4, for July 27, 1968

The Sin of Partiality

MEMORY VERSE:

"For ye see

your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men

after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: but God hath

chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath

chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are

mighty." 1 Cor.

1:26, 27.

STUDY HELPS:

"Counsels on Health," pages 228-230; "Testimonies," Vol. 2, PP.

156-161; "Christ's Object Lessons," pages 376-389; "S.D.A. Bible Commen-

tary."

STUDY AIM:

To develop the principle that a man in whose heart the love of Jesus

reigns will regard all men as of equal worth in God's sight-that he will mani-

fest the same sympathetic interest in the needy poor as in the needy rich.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Partiality Incompatible With Faith

in Jesus

Admonition to refrain from

partiality. James 2:1.

Quality of justice not determined

by poverty or wealth. Lev. 19:15.

God provides for all alike.

Matt. 5:45.

II. The Folly of Class Distinction

Men not to be evaluated by out-

ward appearance. James 2:2, 3.

Such evaluation the result of un-

Christlike thinking. James 2:4.

God's estimate of the poor.

James 2:5.

7. Man's mistaken estimate of the

poor. James 2:6 (first part).

8. The behavior of the rich toward

the poor in the early church.

James 2:6 (last part), 7.

III. The "Royal Law" and Partiality

9. The royal law defined. James 2:8.

10. Class distinctions violate Christian

principles. James 2:9.

IV. Unselfish Love for God and Man

11. Disregard of any divine require-

ment makes a man a transgressor.

James 2:10, 11.

12. Love for God results in willing

obedience. James 2:12. -

13. Mercy triumphs over fear of

judgment. James 2:13.

Introduction

THE LESSON

ing a pair of scales in balance, her eyes

covered so that she will not be influenced

by seeing who or what is before

her."—

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

on Lev. 19:15.

3. To

what aspect of the love of

God did Jesus, in His Sermon on the

Mount, draw the attention of His

hearers? Matt.

5:45.

The inspired pen counsels us: "Read the

second chapter of James. Practice the truth

in your daily life and you will know the

work that the Lord has given you to do."—

Testimonies to Ministers,

page 125.

The section of James 2 considered in this

lesson emphasizes the truth that God rec-

ognizes no artificial distinctions between

men, and that His true followers will act

with a spirit of sympathetic love toward all

men, regardless of their station in life. They

will not be influenced by poverty or riches,

learning or ignorance, but will look upon

all men as candidates for the kingdom of

glory.

Partiality Incompatible With

Faith in Jesus

What does James urge believers

not to attempt to unite with the faith

of Jesus? James 2:1. Compare Acts

10:34.

NOTE.—In a message directed primarily

to workers in the publishing office at Battle

Creek, but which states principles applicable

in all situations, Sister White wrote: "Those

who link their affections and interest to

one or two, and favor them to the dis-

advantage of others, should not retain their

position in the office for a day. This un-

sanctified partiality for special ones who

may please the fancy, to the neglect of

others who are conscientious and God-

fearing, and in His sight of more value, is

offensive to God. That which God values

we should value. The ornament of a meek

and quiet spirit He regards of higher value

than external beauty, outward adornment,

riches, or worldly

honor."—Testimonies,

Vol. 3, p. 24.

With what attitude were those

who administered justice in ancient

Israel instructed to act? Lev. 19:15.

Compare Deut. 1:17.

NOTE.—"To

have 'respect to persons' is

to 'commit sin' (James 2:9). The artist

rightly represents justice as a woman hold-

NOTE.—"In His life and lessons, Christ

has given a perfect exemplification of the

unselfish ministry which has its origin in

God. God does not live for Himself. By

creating the world, and by upholding all

things, He is constantly ministering for

others. . . . Jesus was given to stand at

the head of humanity, that by His example

He might teach what it means to minister.

... He"e'

-rved all, ministered to all. Thus He

lived the law of God, and by His ex-

ample showed how we are to obey it"—

The Desire of Ages,

page 649.

The Folly of Class Distinction

How did some early Christians

show partiality to men of means?

James 2:2,

What does partiality based on

economic status reveal? James

2:4.

NOTE.—"The apostle calls the partial

ones 'judges' because they have expressed

their judgment by their conduct. They

judged the rich and the poor by un-Christ-

like standards. Their judgment in making a

distinction between the rich and the poor

was based on a false sense of values—the

standard usually practiced by the 'world'

(see ch. 1:27). To a genuine Christian the

soul of the poor man is worth as much as

the soul of the rich man, Calvary being the

great equalizer."—S.D.A.

Bible Commen-

tary,

on James 2:4.

What high destiny awaits the

poor who are rich in faith? James

2:5.

Compare Matt.

5:3.

[ 14 ]

NOTE.—"The poor should be treated with

as much interest and attention as the rich.

The practice of honoring the rich and

slighting and neglecting the poor is a crime

in the sight of God. Those who are sur-

rounded with all the comforts of life, or

who are petted and pampered by the

world because they are rich, do not feel

the need of sympathy and tender consider-

ation as do persons whose lives have been

one long struggle with poverty. The latter

have but little in this life to make them

happy or cheerful, and they will appreci-

ate sympathy and

love."—Testimonies,

Vol.

4, p. 551.

How have many Christians

treated the poor? James 2:6 (first

part).

NOTE.—"It was not the purpose of God

that poverty should ever leave the world.

The ranks of society were never to be

equalized; for the diversity of conditions

which characterizes our race is one of the

means by which God has designed to

prove and develop character. Many have

urged with great enthusiasm that all men

should have an equal share in the temporal

blessings of God; but this was not the

purpose of the Creator. Christ has said

that we shall have the poor always with us.

The poor, as well as the rich, are the pur-

chase of His blood; and among His pro-

fessed followers, in most cases, the former

serve Him with singleness of purpose, while

the latter are constantly fastening their

affections on their earthly treasures, and

Christ is forgotten. The cares of this life

and the greed for riches eclipse the glory

of the eternal world. It would be the great-

est misfortune that has ever befallen man-

kind if all were to be placed upon an

equality in worldly possessions."—Counsels

on Health,

page 230.

What is said of the behavior of

some rich men toward the church

and toward the name of God? James

2:6 (last part), 7.

NoTE.—It must be remembered that pro-

fession of faith in Jesus brought many

perplexing problems to the believers during

the first few centuries of the Christian era

—as will no doubt be the case in the not

far distant future when the line of demar-

cation is clearly drawn between those who

serve God and those who serve Him not.

"James is saying that in view of these ar-

rogant practices of 'rich men' (v. 6) the

rich visitor does not deserve the fawning

partiality granted him when he visits the

church. Church members are to show

respect for the rich, but no more than the

respect and consideration they show the

poor."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

James 2:7.

The "Royal Law" and

Partiality

What is the chief guiding princi-

ple of the "royal law"? James 2:8.

Compare Rom. 13:10.

10.

How does God regard partial-

ity? James 2:9.

Nom. —James suggests that those who

show respect of persons arc "missing the

mark"; they lack love that characterizes

all true Christians. They fail to realize that

"the law of self-renouncing love is the law

of life for earth and heaven."—The

Desire

of Ages,

page 20.

Unselfish Love for God and Man

11.

What is the result of disregard-

ing even one point of the law of God?

James 2:10, 11.

NOTE.—"From the very beginning of the

great controversy in heaven it has been

Satan's purpose to overthrow the law of

God. It was to accomplish this that he

entered upon his rebellion against the

Creator, and though he was cast out of

heaven he has continued the same warfare

upon the earth. To deceive men, and thus

lead them to transgress God's law, is the

object which he has steadfastly pursued.

Whether this be accomplished by casting

aside the law altogether, or by rejecting

one of its precepts, the result will be ulti-

[ 15

mately the same. He that offends 'in one

point,' manifests contempt for the whole

law; his influence and example are on the

side of transgression; he becomes 'guilty

of all.' James

2:10."-The Great Contro-

versy,

page 582.

12. What will be the conduct of

those who recognize the principle of

true liberty embodied in the law of

God? James 2:12. Compare John 14:

15; 15:10, 14; 1 John 5:3.

NOTE.

-"The

only condition upon which

the freedom of man is possible is that of

becoming one with Christ. 'The truth shall

make you free;' and Christ is the truth.

Sin can triumph only by enfeebling the

mind, and destroying the liberty of the

soul. Subjection to God is restoration to

one's self,-to the true glory and dignity of

man. The divine law, to which we are

brought into subjection, is 'the law of

liberty.' James

2:12."-The Desire of Ages,

page 466.

13. How does James conclude his

discussion of the sin of partiality?

James 2:13. Compare Matt. 25:41-46;

Gal. 6:7-10.

Questions for Meditation

Am I completely impartial in my deal-

ings with all people?

Is my life characterized by whole-

hearted love for God and self-effacing love

for men?

Does my concept of the importance of

the law of God lead me to perfect compli-

ance with its requirements?

Lesson 5, for August 3, 1968

Faith and Works

MEMORY VERSE: "By

faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and

he that had received the promises offered up his only-begotten son." Heb.

11:17.

STUDY HELPS:

"Patriarchs and Prophets," pages 145-155; "Steps to Christ," chap-

ters "Growing Up Into Christ" and "The Work and the Life."

STUDY AIM:

To clarify the relationship between faith and works.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction



IV.

I. The Subject Introduced

The worthlessness of faith by

itself. James 2:14 (first part).

Such faith lacks saving power.

James 2:14 (last part).

II. A Fitting Illustration

Words without deeds. James

2:15, 16.

Faith that does not lead to action

is useless. James 2:17.

III. Faith and Works Go Together



Faith demonstrated by accompany-

ing works. James 2:18.

The utter futility of belief without

action. James 2:19.

The barrenness of faith unac-

companied by works. James 2:20.

Abraham's Example

Abraham's faith demonstrated.

James 2:21.

Faith completed by obedience.

James 2:22.

10.

Righteousness imputed to Abra-

ham. James 2:23; Rom. 4:3.

11.

Abraham an example of faith

working by love. Gal. 5:6 (last.

part).

12.

Justification accompanied by cor-

responding works. James 2:24.

Faith Without Works Is Dead

13.

Rahab's faith-inspired works.

James 2:25.

14.

Faith without works compared

to a corpse. James 2:26.

THE LESSON

Introduction

James 2:14-26 consists of a discussion of

the relation, between faith and works, with

emphasis on the fact that faith is worth-

less unless it is accompanied by correspond-

ing works. Faith divorced from works,

says James, is worthless in God's sight.

"There are conditions to our receiving

justification and sanctification, and the

righteousness of Christ. . . . While good

works will not save even one soul, yet

it is impossible for even one soul to be

saved without good works. God saves us

under a law, that we must ask if we

would receive, seek if we would find, and

knock if we would have the door opened

unto

us."—Selected Messages,

Bk. 1, p. 377.

"The faith that is unto salvation is not

a casual faith, it is not the mere consent

of the intellect, it is belief rooted in the

heart, that embraces Christ as a personal

Saviour, assured that He can save unto

the uttermost all that come unto God by

Him. To believe that He will save others,

but will not save you is not genuine faith;

but when the soul lays hold upon Christ

as the only hope of salvation, then genuine

faith is manifested. This faith leads its

possessor to place all the affections of the

soul upon Christ; his understanding is

under the control of the Holy Spirit, and his

character is molded after the divine like-

ness. His faith is not a dead faith, but a

faith that works by love, and leads him

to behold the beauty of Christ, and to be-

come assimilated to the divine character."

—Ibid.,

pp. 391,392.

The Subject Introduced

1. What answer is implied in

James's question about faith without

works? James 2:14 (first part). Com-

pare Matt. 21:28-31.

NoTE.—Faith without works, a faith that

prompts no more than mere lip service,

is profitleSs.

"The testimony of the Word of God is

against this ensnaring doctrine of faith

without works. It is not faith that claims

the favor of Heaven without complying

with the conditions upon which mercy is

to be granted, it is presumption; for gen-

tiine faith has its foundation in the proM-

iseS and proVisions of the Scriptures;

"Let none deceive themselves with the

belief that they can become holy while

willfully violating one of God's require-

ments. The commission of a known sin

silences the witnessing voice of the Spirit

and separates the soul from God."—The

Great Controversy,

page 472.

What further question does

James ask about faith without works?

James 2:14 (last part).

NOTE.—"The Greek makes clear that

James expects a negative answer: 'No, of

course not' Faith that does not find ex-

pression in habitual good deeds will never

save any man."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on James 2:14.

A Fitting Illustration

What illustration does James give

of the worthlessness of faith without

works? James 2:15, 16. Compare Isa.

58:5-8.

NOTE.—"If we neglect the cases of the

needy and the unfortunate that are brought

under our notice, no matter who they may

be, we 'have no assurance of eternal life;

for we do not answer the claims that God

has upon us. . . . Those who do not open

their hearts to the wants and sufferings of

humanity will not open their hearts to the

claims of God as stated in the first four

precepts of the Decalogue. Idols claim the

heart and affections, and God is not hon-

ored and does not reign supreme."—Testi-

monies,

Vol. 3, p. 524.

How is so-called faith that does

not inspire corresponding action best

described? James 2:17.

NOTE.—"Christ only is the way, the

truth, the life; and man can he justified

alone through the imputation of Christ's

righteousness. Man is justified freely by

I17

]

God's grace through faith, and not by

works, lest any man should boast."—Ellen

G. White,

Review and Herald,

Nov. 11,

1890.

Faith and Works Go Together

How is the quality of one's faith

revealed? James 2:18.

NcrrE.—"To show faith apart from works

is an impossible task because faith, being

a principle, an attitude of the mind, will

always reveal its nature in outward be-

havior. But one who exhibits an absence

of good works thereby also demonstrates

a lack of genuine faith."—S.D.A.

Bible

Commentary,

on James 2:18.

How do evil angels demonstrate

the uselessness of belief without cor-

responding works? James 2:19.

NorE.—"I saw a very large company

professing the name of Christ, but God did

not recognize them as His. He had no plea-

sure in them. Satan seemed to assume a

religious character and was very willing

that the people should think they were

Christians. He was even anxious that they

should believe in Jesus, His crucifixion,

and

His resurrection. Satan and his angels fully

believe all this themselves, and tremble.

But if this faith does not provoke to good

works, and lead those who profess it to

imitate the self-denying life of Christ,.

Satan is not disturbed; for they merely

assume the Christian name, while their

hearts are still carnal, and he can use

them in his service even better than if they

made no profession."—Early

Writings,

page

227.

What strong appeal does James

address to the man who is slow to

grasp the true importance of match-

ing faith by works? James 2:20.

Abraham's Example

By what was Abraham justified

at the time he offered up his son

Isaac?. James 2:21. Compare Gen. 22:

9-12; Heb. 11:17.

ANSWER:

At that time he was justified

by his works of obedience in offering Isaac.

NOTE.—"As

Abraham engaged in the

'works' preparatory to the offering, he

gave full proof of the genuineness of his

faith....

"Only Abraham's unswerving confidence

in the trustworthiness of God can account

for this supreme act of obedience. His faith,

as evidenced in his 'works,' received again,

as in the first instance of justification (see

Gen. 15:6), the declaration of God's ap-

proval."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

James 2:21.

What effect did Abraham's obedi-

ence have on his faith? James 2:22.

NorE.—The Greek word here rendered

"perfect" implies that works bring faith to

its goal, or to completion. The test gave

Abraham an opportunity to demonstrate

his triumphant faith.

10.

Why was Abraham called the

"friend of God"? James 2:23; Rom.

4:3.

NOTE.—Abraham's experience indicates

that God accepts as friends those who take

Him at His word and show their complete

trust in Him by living in perfect obedience

to all of His revealed will. To all such, God

attributes the righteousness of His own

Son.

11.

For what does God look in

those who profess to be followers of

Jesus? Gal. 5:6 (last part).

NorE.—God looks for

faith,

a faith that

works,

a working faith whose motive power

love.

"Genuine faith always works by love.

When you look to Calvary it is not to

quiet your soul in the nonperformance of

duty, not to compose yourself to sleep,

but to create faith in Jesus, faith that will

work, purifying the soul from the slime

of selfishness. When we lay hold of Christ

by faith, our work has just begun. Every

( 18

man has corrupt and sinful habits that

must be overcome by vigorous warfare.

Every soul is required to fight the fight of

faith. If one is a follower of Christ, he

cannot be sharp in deal, he cannot be

hardhearted, devoid of sympathy. He can-

not be coarse in his speech. He cannot be

full of pomposity and self-esteem. He can-

not be overbearing, nor can he use harsh

words, and censure and condemn.

"The labor of love springs from the work

of faith. . . . 'Work out your own salva-

tion with fear and trembling, for it is God

that worketh in you, both to will and to

do of His good pleasure.' "—Ellen G. White

Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol.

6, p. 1111.

12. What - Will faith working by

love enable God to do for the be-

liever? James 2:24.

Nora.—"A living faith in Christ will

bring every action. of •the

life and every

emotion of the soul into harmony with

God's truth and. righteousness."—Testinw-

nies, Vol. 4, p. 527.

"Those who are justified by faith must

have a heart to keep the way of the Lord.

It is an evidence that a man is not justi-

fied by faith 'when. his works do not cor-

respond to his profession..:.

"The faith that does not produce good

works does not justify the soul. . .

"Imputation of the righteousness of

Christ comes through justifying faith, and is

the justification for which Paul so ear-

nestly contends."—Selected

Messages,

Bk.

1, p. 397.

Faith Without Works is Dead

13.

Whose example demonstrates

that even the most depraved sinner

can attain to justification? James 2:25.

Nora.—"Abraham was noted for piety;

Rahab for immorality. Abraham believed

for many years before the offering up of

Isaac; Rahab possessed a young faith. But

both proved their faith by their utter dis-

regard for personal security and by casting

their lot with God's program. James shows

that the most venerated of the faithful and

the most despised of the Gentiles alike find

justification through a faith that works."

—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

on James 2:25,

14.

To what is faith without works

finally compared? Jaines 2:26.

Questions for Meditation

Is my faith . Practical or merely theo-

retical ?

2: Have I banished all. fear from my life

through perfect trust in God?

3. Would my faith stand a test like that

brought to Abraham?

Lesson 6, for August 10, 1968

Teachers of Present Truth—Wise and Unwise

MEMORY VERSE:

"They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firma-

ment; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and

ever." Daniel 12:3.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Acts of the Apostles,"

pages 501-508; "Evangelism," pages

623-627; "Selected

Messages," Bk. 1, pp.

361-363;

"Early Writings," pages

61-64; "S.D.A. Bible

Commentary."

STUDY AIM: To

become fully aware of the privileges and responsibilities

of wit•

nesses for Jesus in these last days of earth's history.

10 ]

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Office of Teacher in the

Christian Church

Jesus among the rabbis.

Luke 2:46.

Jesus recognized as a teacher from

God. John 3:2.

John's disciples recognized Jesus

as a teacher from God. John 1:

38, 49.

Jesus as a teacher.

Matt. 4:23 (first part).

Results depend on teaching the

words of Jesus. Mark 16:16;

John 12:48.

Jesus' charge to His disciples.

Matt. 28:19, 20.

7. Teaching a gift of the Holy Spirit.

1 Cor. 12:11, 28; Eph. 4:8, 11.

II. The High Standard of Conduct

Required of Teachers

8. An admonition concerning eager-

ness to become a teacher. James

3:1 (first part).

9. Teachers judged by a higher

standard. James 3:1 (last part).

10. Judgment proportionate to en-

trusted talent. Luke 12:47, 48.

III. Two Kinds of Teachers and

Their Rewards

11. The wrong kind of teacher.

2 Tim. 4:3, 4.

12. Punishment of false teachers.

2 Peter 2:1; Phil. 3:18, 19.

13. The right kind of teacher and his

reward. Dan. 12:3 (margin).

THE LESSON

"It is of immense importance, in the

light of the lessons of Christ, that every

human being should study the Scriptures,

that he may be convinced in whom his

hopes of eternal life are centered."—Funda-

menrals of Christian Education,

pages 383,

384.

"Christ was a teacher sent from God, and

His words did not contain a particle of

chaff or a semblance of that which is non-

essential. But the force of much human

instruction is comprised in assertion, not

in truth. The teachers of the present day

can only use the educated ability of pre-

vious teachers; and yet with all the weighty

importance which may be attached to the

words of the greatest authors, there is a

conscious inability to trace them back to

the first great principle, the Source of un-

erring wisdom, from which teachers derive

their authority. There is a painful uncer-

tainty, a constant searching and reaching

for assurances that can only be found in

God. The trumpet of human greatness may

be sounded, but it is with an uncertain

sound; it is not reliable, and the salvation

of human souls cannot be ventured upon

it."—Ibid.,

p. 407.

3. What title did John's disciples

apply to Jesus, showing that they rec-

ognized Him as a teacher? John 1:

38, 49.

[201

Introduction

Following the clear and forceful ex-

planation of the relationship between faith

and works in chapter 2, James utters a

warning against being eager to teach with-

out adequate preparation and due con-

sideration of the heavy responsibilities rest-

ing upon those who undertake to instruct

others concerning salvation.

The Office of Teacher in the

Christian Church

Where did Joseph and Mary find

Jesus after a three-day search? What

was He doing? Luke 2:46.

What credentials as a teacher did

Nicodemus recognize in Jesus? John

3:2.

NOTE.

"The whole line of study in our

schools should be to prepare a people for

the future, immortal life.

"Jesus Christ is the knowledge of the

Father, and Christ is our great teacher

sent from God. . . .

NorE.—"Rabbi. . . . A title of respect,

by which pupils addressed their teachers.

. . . A courteous form of address, generally

equivalent to our 'sir.' It is applied.. to

Christ in Mt 26:25; Mk 14:45; Jn 1:38,

49; 3:2, 26; 4:31; 6:25; 9:2; 11:8; etc.,

and to John the Baptist in Jn 3:26. Christ

counseled His disciples against coveting or

using this title (Mt 23:7,

8)."—S.D.A. Bi-

ble Dictionary,

Article, "Rabbi."

How is Jesus' work in Galilee

described? Matt. 4:23 (first part).

Compare Matt. 26:55.

Nort.—"The Prince of teachers, He

sought access to the people by the pathway

of their most familiar associations. He

Presented the truth in such a way that

ever after it was to His hearers intertwined

with their most hallowed recollections and

sympathies. He taught in a way that made

them feel the completeness of His identi-

fication with their interests and happiness.

His instruction was so direct, His illustra-

tions were so appropriate, His words so

sympathetic and cheerful, that His hearers

were charmed. The simplicity and earnest-

ness with which He addressed the needy,

hallowed every word."—The

Ministry of

Healing,

pages 23, 24.

"In every human being, however fallen,

He beheld a son of God, one who might be

restored to the privilege of his divine re-

lationship."—Education, page 79.

What vital result depends on the

teaching of the words of Jesus? Mark

16:16; John 12:48.

NorE.—"In the golden censer of truth,

as presented in Christ's teachings, we have

that which will convict and convert souls.

Proclaim, in the simplicity of Christ, the

truths that He came to this world to pro-

, claim, and the power of your message

will make itself felt. Do not advocate

theories or tests that Christ has never

mentioned, and that have no foundation in

the Bible. We have grand, solemn truths

for the people. 'It is written' is the test

that must be brought home to every soul."

—Gospel Workers,

page 309.

Just before Jesus left this world,

what did He command His disciples

to teach to all people? Matt. 28:19,-20.

NOTE.—"What the church needs in these

days of peril, is an army of workers who,

like Paul, have educated themselves for

usefulness, who have a deep experience in

the things of God, and who are filled with

earnestness and zeal. Sanctified, self-sacri-

ficing men are needed; men who are brave

and true ; men in whose hearts Christ is

formed, 'the hope of glory,' and who with

lips touched with holy fire will 'preach

the word' For the want of such workers

the cause of God languishes, and fatal

errors, like a deadly poison, taint the morals

and blight the hopes of a large part of the

human race.

"As the faithful, toil-worn standard-

bearers are offering up their lives for the

truth's sake, who will come forward to take

their place? Will our younc

men accept

the holy trust at the hand

of their fa-

thers? Are they preparing to fill the va-

cancies made by the death of the faithful?

Will the apostle's charge be heeded, the

call to duty be heard, amid the incitements

to selfishness and ambition that allure the

youth?"—Gospel Workers,

pages 61, 62.

How are teachers of the gospel

chosen for their work? 1 Cor. 12:11,

28; Eph. 4:8, 11.

NorE.—"The perfection of the church

depends not on each member being fash-

ioned exactly alike. God calls for each one

to take his proper place, to stand in his

lot to do his appointed work according to

the ability which has been given him."—

Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible

Commentary,

Vol. 6, p. 1090.

The High Standard of Conduct

Required of Teachers

What caution is given concern-

ing becoming a teacher? James 3:1

(first part).

NorE.-

--The form of the Greek verb

translated "be not," has the force of "stop

becoming." James is apparently advising

[21]

church members to move cautiously

their enthusiasm to become teachers, to

take time to count the cost.

Why should one, before assum-

ing the responsibility of teaching

truth, consider the matter most care-

fully? James 3:1 (last part).

Nora.—"There are degrees of responsi-

bility in the work of the Lord, and those

who presume to teach will be held ac-

countable both for their personal conduct

and for their influence upon others. . . .

The teacher is expected to know God's

will more thoroughly than others, and his

conduct should be correspondingly exem-

plary."--S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

James 3:1.

10.

In relation

to their entrusted

talents, by what principle will men

be judged? Luke 12:47, 48.

NOTE.—"According to their responsibility

will be the puniShment of those who know

the truth and yet disregard God's corn-

mands.",--Testinzonies,

Vol. 8, p. 96.

"God's test of the heathen, who have

not the light, and of those

where

the knowledge of truth and light has been

abundant, is altogether different. He ac-

cepts from those in heathen lands a phase

of righteousness which does not satisfy

Him when offered by those of Christian

lands. He does not require much where

much has not been bestowed."—Ellen G.

White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commen-

tary,Vol.

5, p. 1121.

Two Kinds of Teachers and

Their Rewards

11.

What type of teaching will

some last-day Christians desire? 2

Tim. 4:3, 4. Compare 2 Tim. 3:5.

NoTE.—"The apostle does not here refer

to the openly irreligious, but to the pro-

fessing Christians who make inclination

their guide, and thus become enslaved by

self: Such :are =willing to listen to those

doctrines only that do not rebuke their

sins or condemn their pleasure-loving

course. They are offended by the plain

words of the faithful servants of Christ

and choose teachers who praise and flatter

them. And among professing ministers there

are those who preach the opinions of men

instead of the Word of God. Unfaithful

to their trust, they lead astray those who

look to them for spiritual guidance."—The

Acts of the Apostles,

pages 504, 505.

12.

What fate awaits false teachers

who teach contrary to the Word of

God? 2 Peter

2:1; Phil. 3:18, 19.

NOTE.—"While

exalting the 'sure word

of prophecy' as a safe guide in times of

peril, the apostle solemnly_ warned the

church against the torch of false prophecy,

which would be uplifted by 'false teachers,'

who would privily bring in 'damnable

heresies, even denying the Lord.' These

false teachers, arising in the church and

accounted true by many of their brethren

in the faith, the apostle compared to 'wells

without water, clouds that are carried with

a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness

is reserved forever.' The latter end is worse

with them,' be declared, 'than the beginning.

For it had been better for them not to

have known the way of righteousness,

than, after they have known it, 'to turn

from the holy commandment delivered

unto

them!"—The Acts of the Apostles,

page 535.

13.

How are true teachers described,

and what will be their reward? Dan.

12:3 (margin).

NOTE.—He

who knows and loves Jesus

will gladly accept the wonderful responsi-

bility of being measured by a higher stan-

dard and will respond to the Saviour's

call, "Whom shall I send, and who will go

for Us?" by saying, "Here am I; send

me." Isaiah 6:8.

"The messengers should watch for souls

as they that must give account.. . . They

will have to lay aside worldly interests

and comforts and make it their first object

to do all in their power to advance the

cause of present truth and save perishing

souls.

"They will also have

a rich reward. In

their crowns of rejoicing those who are

f 22

rescued by them and finally saved will

shine as stars forever and ever. And to all

eternity they will enjoy the satisfaction

of having done what they could in pre-

senting the truth in its purity and beauty,

so that souls fell in love with it, were

sanctified through it, and availed them-

selves of the inestimable privilege of being

made rich, and being washed in the blood of

the Lamb and redeemed unto

God."—Early

Writings,

page 61.

Questions for Meditation

Do I recognize that I have been called

by God to teach the gospel to those within

my sphere of influence? (See

The Desire of

Ages,

page 822.)

Do I see "in every human being, how-

ever fallen, . . , one who might be restored

to the privilege of his divine relationship"?

Am I

"teacher" who cannot

be in-

fluenced

by bribes or threats?

Lesson 7, for August 17, 1968

Use and Abuse of the Talent of Speech

LESSON SCRIPTURE:

James 3:2-12.

MEMORY VERSE: "A

word fitly

spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver."

Proverbs 25:11.

STUDY HELPS:

"Christ's Object Lessons," pages 335-339; "The Adventist Home,"

pages 434-443; "Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students," pages 237-

247; "Messages to Young People," pages 134-136, 327, 328; "Gospel Work-

ers," pages 117-123; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

STUDY AIM: To

develop a more vivid awareness of the vital role of the tongue in

determining the measure of happiness experienced in this world and the next.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Speech and Christian Perfection

Everyone makes mistakes.

James 3:2 (first part) ; Rom. 3:23.

Flawless speech a mark of per-

fection. James 3:2 (second part).

Control of the tongue an index to

complete self-control. James

3:2 (last part).

II. Right and Wrong Uses of the

Talent of Speech

Horses controlled by bridles and

bits. James 3:3, 5.

Great ships controlled by small

rudders. James 3:4.

Blessing promised to the meek.

Matt. 5:5.

The tongue compared to fire.

James 3:6.

S. Animals can be tamed, but not

the tongue. James 3:8; Matt. 12:34.

A warning against inconsistent

speech. James 3:9, 10:-

10.

Inconsistent speech illustrated.

James 3:11.

III. Speech an Index to Character

11.

"By their fruits." Matt.

7:15-20.

12.

A genuine Christian not "double-

tongued." James 3:12.

13.

The beauty of appropriate words.

Prov. 25:11.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"The talent of speech ranks with the

highest gifts."—Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 7,

p..

936.

Therefore it is important for us to give the

most serious consideration to the proper

use of the tongue.

[ 23 3

Speech and Christian Perfection

What is said concerning the

number of those who make mistakes?

James 3:2 (first part); Rom. 3:23.

NOTE.—"The

sinner may err, but he is

not cast off without mercy. His only hope,

however, is repentance toward God and

faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. It is the

Father's prerogative to forgive our trans-

gressions and sins, because Christ has taken

upon Himself our guilt and reprieved us,

imputing to us His own righteousness. His

sacrifice satisfies fully the demands of jus-

tice."—Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

Vol. 6, p. 1070.

What is one evidence that a per-

son has attained to a state of perfec-

tion? James 3:2 (second part). Com-

pare 1 Peter 3:10, 11.

NorE.—"Through the help that Christ

can give, we shall be able to learn to bridle

the tongue. Sorely as He was tried on the

point of hasty and angry speech, He never

once sinned with His lips. With patient

calmness He met the sneers, the taunts,

and the ridicule of His fellow workers at

the carpenter's bench. Instead of retorting

angrily, He would begin to sing

one

David's beautiful psalms; and His com-

panions, before realizing what they were

doing, would unite with Him in the hymn.

What a transformation would be wrought

in this world if men and women today

would follow Christ's example in the use

of words."—Ellen G. White Comments,

SD.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 7, p. 936.

What will a person who can

bridle his tongue be able to do with

the rest of his body? James 3:2 (last

part). Compare Ps. 39:1.

NOTE.—"I have been shown that we have

a great work before us to search our own

hearts, and watch ourselves with jealous

care. We should learn wherein we fail, and

then guard ourselves upon that point. We

must have perfect control over our own

spirit. 'If any man offend not in word, the

same is a perfect man, and able also to

bridle the whole body.' The light that shines

upon our path, the truth that commends

itself to our consciences, will condemn and

destroy the soul, or sanctify and transform

it. We are living too near the close of pro-

bation to be content with a superficial

work."—Testimonies,

Vol. 1, p. 308.

"The greatest triumph given us by the

religion of Christ is control over ourselves.

Our natural propensities must be controlled,

or we can never overcome as Christ over-

came."—Ibid., Vol. 4, p. 235.

Right and Wrong Uses of the

Talent of Speech

What illustration does James use

to show the importance of controlling

the tongue? James 3:3, 5.

NoTE.—"As an unruly horse endangers

the life of its rider, so an unruly tongue

jeopardizes the whole Christian experience.

Obedience and control are desirable for men

as well as for domesticated animals."—

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on James 3:3.

What other example is given of

the great power that small things ex-

ercise? James 3:4.

NOTE.—"The

horse . .. possesses its own

headstrong will and a ship is the victim

of strong winds, but both forces can be con-

trolled by a relatively small device."--

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on James 3:4.

In contrast with the boasting

tongue of James 3:5, how did Jesus

describe those who will inherit the

earth? Matt. 5:5. Compare James 3:5.

NOTE.—"The

language of the meek is

never that of boasting. Like the child Sam-

uel, they pray, 'Speak, Lord, for Thy ser-

vant heareth.' When Joshua was placed

in the highest position of honor, as com-

mander of Israel, he bade defiance to all the

enemies of God. His heart was filled with

[ 247

noble thoughts of his great mission. Yet

upon the intimation of a message from

Heaven, he placed himself in the position

of a little child to be directed. 'What saith

my Lord unto His servant?' was his re-

sponse. . . .

"Meekness in the school of Christ is one

of the marked fruits of the Spirit. It is a

grace wrought by the Holy Spirit as a

sanctifier, and enables its possessor at all

times to control a rash and impetuous

temper... .

"Meekness is the inward adorning, which

God estimates as of great price. . . .

He who garnished the heavens with the

orbs of light has by the same Spirit prom-

ised that 'He will beautify the meek with

salvation.' Angels of heaven will register

as best adorned those who put on the Lord

Jesus Christ and walk with Him in meek-

ness and lowliness of mind."—Ellen G.

White,

My Life Today,

page 253.

How widespread is the effect of

the fire that the tongue sets ablaze?

James 3:6.

NorE.—"Who does not love life and de-

sire good days? yet how few comply with

the conditions, to refrain the tongue from

evil and the lips from speaking guile. Few

are willing to follow the Saviour's example

of meekness and humility. Many ask the

Lord to humble them, but are unwilling to

submit to the needful discipline. When the

test comes, when trials or even annoyances

occur, the heart rebels, and the tongue ut-

ters words that are like poisoned arrows or

blasting hail. . . .

"The sin of evil speaking begins with the

cherishing of evil thoughts. Guile includes

impurity in all its forms. An impure thought

tolerated, an unholy desire cherished, and

the soul is contaminated, its integrity com-

promised. . . . Every unholy thought must

he instantly repelled. To your closet, fol-

lowers of Christ. Pray in faith and with all

the heart. Satan is watching to ensnare

your feet. You must have help from above

if you would escape his devices."—Testi-

monies,

Vol. 5, pp. 176, 177.

Why is it impossible for man, by

himself, to subdue the tongue? James

3:8; Matt. 12:34. Compare Jer. 17:9.

NOTE.—The tongue expresses that which

is in the heart (Matt. 12:34), and the heart

is deceitful and wicked (Jer. 17:9). There-

fore the tongue gives utterance to the sel-

fish ideas of the unconverted heart.

"Every passion must be under the control

of enlightened conscience. . . .

"If you cherish a habitual impression

that God sees and hears all that you do

and say, and keeps a faithful record of all

your words and actions, and that you

must meet it all, then in all you do and

say you will seek to follow the dictates of

an enlightened and wakeful conscience.

Your tongue will be used to the glory of

God and will be a source of blessing to

yourself and to others. But if you separate

from God, . . . take heed lest your tongue

shall prove a world of iniquity and brinr

upon you fearful condemnation • for souls

will be lost through

you."—festimonies,

Vol. 4, pp. 243, 244.

What emphatic comment does

James make about the inconsistency

of the tongue? James 3:9, 10.

NOTE.—It is entirely contrary to reason

or the fitness of things for one who pro-

fesses to be a follower of the meek and

lowly Jesus to permit degrading words to

issue from his lips, especially such as to

belittle any mm for whom Christ gave

His life.

"The religion of Jesus softens whatever

is hard and rough in the temper, and

smooths whatever is rugged and sharp in

the manners. It makes the words gentle

and the demeanor winning. Let us learn

from Christ how to combine a high sense

of purity and integrity with sunniness of

disposition. A kind, courteous Christian is

the most powerful argument that can be

produced in favor of Christianity."—Gospel

Workers,

page 122.

10.

What illustration of the incon-

sistency of the tongue is given? James

3:11.

NOTE.—"Can an impure fountain send

forth sweet waters? Why should we wade

through the mass of error contained in the

works of pagans and infidels, for the sake

[ 25 ]

of obtaining the benefit of a few intellectual

truths, when all truth is at our command?"

—Fundanzentals of Christian Education,

page 167.

Speech an Index to Character

11.

What is the conclusive test of

character? Matt.

7:15-20.

NOTE.—"Men boldly teach for doctrines

the commandments of men; and as tradi-

tions pass on from age to age, they acquire

a power over the human mind. But age

does not make error truth, neither does its

burdensome weight cause the plant of truth

to become a parasite. The tree of truth

bears its own genuine fruit, sowing its true

origin and nature. The parasite of error

also bears its own fruit, and makes mani-

fest that its character is diverse from the

plant of heavenly

origin."—Evangelism,

page 589.

12.

How does James clinch the ar-

gument that a true Christian will not

be "double-tongued"? James 3:12.

NorE.—"If the mind and heart arc full

of the love of God, this will be revealed in

the conversation. It will not be a difficult

matter to impart that which enters into

our spiritual life. Great thoughts, noble

aspirations, clear perceptions of truth, un-

selfish purposes, yearnings for piety and

holiness, will bear fruit in words that re-

veal the character of the heart treasure."—

Christ's Object, Lessons,

page 338.

13.

By what beautiful simile did

Solomon commend appropriate lan-

guage? Prov. 25:11.

NOTE.—"Christ taught His disciples how

to conduct themselves when in the com-

pany of others. He instructed them in re-

gard to the duties and regulations of true

social life, which are the same as the laws

of the kingdom of God. He taught the

disciples, by example, that when attending

any public gathering, they need not want

for something to say. His conversation

when at a feast differed most decidedly

from that which had been listened to at

feasts in the past. Every word He uttered

was a savor of life unto life. He spoke with

clearness and simplicity. His words were

as apples of gold in pictures of silver."—

Life Today,

page 190.

"What rays of softness and beauty shone

forth in the daily life of our Saviour!

What sweetness flowed from His very pres-

ence! .. . Those with whom Christ dwells

will be surrounded with a divine atmo-

sphere. Their white robes of purity will be

fragrant with perfume from the garden of

the Lord."—Ibid., p. 191.

Questions for Meditation

Do I understand. and appreciate the

importance of. the use of accurate speech?

Are my words always edifying?

Do I realize that many of life's prob-

lems are the result of faulty expreSsions of

thought?

Lesson 8, for August 24, 1968

True and False Wisdom Contrasted

LESSON SCRIPTURE:

James 3:13-18.

MEMORY VERSE:

"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Ps. 111:10.

STUDY HELPS:

"Testimonies," Vol. 5, pp. 167-177,

217-235; "Ibid.," Vol.

8, pp.

239-243; "The Sanctified Life," pages 34-41; "Thoughts From the Mount of

Blessing," pages 6-9 (1943 ed., pages 17-21); "The Great Controversy," pages

469-478.

STUDY AIM:

To show the infinite

superiority of the wisdom from above over the

"wisdom" of the world, the desirability of a life in harmony with that wisdom,

and the folly of striving for worldly wisdom.

[ 26 ]

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. An Inspired Description of Wisdom

The "fear" of the Lord. Ps. 111:10.

(first part) ; Prov. 1:7.

This fear expressed by obedience.

Ps. 111:10 (second part).

"Fear" equated with "reverence."

Ps. 111:9 (last part).

Superiority of true wisdom.

Prov. 3:13-13.

II. True Wisdom Demonstrated by

Its Results

5. Meekness characteristic of one who

possesses heavenly wisdoni,

James 3:13.

Meekness the result of the in-

dwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Gal. 5:22, 23.

Moses an outstanding illustration

of meekness. Num. 12:3.

3. Evil fruits of worldly wisdom.

James 3:14, 15.

Worldly wisdom brings confusion

into the church. James 3:16.

The Beauty of Heavenly Wisdom

10.

True wisdom comes from God.

James 3:17 (first part).

11.

The purity of Heaven-born

wisdom. James 3:17 (first part).

12.

Other qualities of true wisdom.

James 3:17 (second part).

13.

The simplicity of true wisdom.

James 3:17 (last part).

14.

The effect of true wisdom..-

James 3:18.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"In His Word the Lord enumerates the

gifts and graces that are indiSpensable for

all who connect with His' work. `He does

not teach us to ignore learning .or despise

education; for when controlled by the love

and fear of God, intellectual culture is a

blessing; yet this is not presented as the

most important qualification for the ser-

vice of God. Jesus passed by the wise men

of His time, the men of education and

position, because they were so proud and

self-sufficient in their boasted superiority

that they could not sympathize with suf-

fering humanity and become colaborers

with the Man of Nazareth. In their bigotry

they scorned to be taught by Christ.: . .

The attributes of the character of Christ

can be imparted to those only who dis-

trust themselves. The highest scientific edu-

cation cannot in itself develop a Christlike

character. The fruits of true wisdom come

from Christ

alone."-Testimonies to Minis-

ters,

page 259.

An Inspired Description

of Wisdom

What should be the first step in

one's search for wisdom? Ps. 111:1.0

(first part); Prov. 1;7.

NOTE.-"The fear of the Lord is that

reverent attitude compounded of love, awe,

and

gratitude that distinguishes men who

have realized their own unworthiness and

have found 'salvation in God's gracious

plan."-S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Prov.

1;7.



The' word rendered "beginning" in Psalm

111:10 may also mean "principal part."

The

fear of the Lord is not only the first

step in the acquirement of all true knowl-

edge, but also the central emphasis of

knowledge. If knowledge does not lead to

a surrender of the life to. Christ, it has

missed its aim. "'Call no man brilliant

who has not the wisdom to choose the Lord

Jesus Christ-the light and life of the

world. The excellence of a man is deter-

mined by his possession of the virtues of

Christ.'

"-S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Prov. 1:7.

2. How does the "fear of the Lord,"

which is the central emphasis of

knowledge, manifest itself? Ps. 111:10

(second part). Compare Deut. 4:5, 6;

Eccl. 12:13.

NOTE.

-"The

fear of the Lord•is the

beginning of wisdom. It lies at .the fowl-

dation

of. 'a proper education. 'Those 'who,

[

]

having a favorable opportunity, have

failed to learn this first great lesson, are

not only disqualified for service in the

cause of God, but are a positive injury

to the community in which they live."—

Ibid.,

Vol. 4,

208.

what divine attributes are

men admonished to be aware? Ps.

111:9 (last part). Compare Luke 1:49.

NOTE.—"Reverend.

From the Hebrew

yara',

'to fear.' . . . The form of the verb

here used,

nova'

means literally, 'to be

feared,' or 'to be reverenced.'

"—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on Ps. 111:9.

"If Christ were on earth today, sur-

rounded by those who bear the title of

`Reverend' or 'Right Reverend,' would He

not repeat His saying, 'Neither be ye

called masters: for One is your Master,

even Christ'? The Scripture declares of

God, 'Holy and reverend is His name.'

Ps. 111:9. To what human being is such

a title befitting? How little does man re-

veal of the wisdom and righteousness it

indicates ! How many of those who as-

sume this title are misrepresenting the

name and character of God ! Alas, how

often have worldly ambition, despotism,

and the basest sins been hidden under the

broidered garments of a high and holy

office!"—The Desire of Ages,

page 613.

See also

Evangelism,

page 133.

What does the man who obtains

wisdom acquire along with it? Prov.

3:13-18.

True Wisdom Demonstrated

by Its Results

What is one outstanding char-

acteristic of the man who possesses

true wisdom? James 3:13.

NoTE.—The word translated "conversa-

tion" in James 3:13 means

conduct,

way of life.

"The soul that is constantly looking

unto Jesus will see His self-denying love

and deep humility, and will copy His ex-

ample."—Testimonies,

Vol. 5, p. 175.

Of what is meekness the result?

Gal. 5:22, 23.

Who is given credit as being the

meekest man? Num. 12:3.

NOTE.

-"If

men desire to be honored

by God, let them be humble. Those who

carry forward God's work should be dis-

tinguished from all others by their hu-

mility. Of the man who is noted for his

meekness, Christ says, He can be trusted.

Through him I can reveal Myself to the

world. He will not weave into the web

any threads of selfishness. I will manifest

Myself to him as I do not to the world."

—Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bi-

ble Commentary,

Vol. 1, p. 1113.

What are the results of acquiring

the wisdom the world offers? James

3:14, 15. Compare Rom. 13:12-14;

Gal. 5:19.21.

Nora.—"The wisdom which spiritualism

imparts is that described by the apostle

James, which `descendeth not from above,

but is earthly, sensual, devilish.' . . .

This, however, the great deceiver con-

ceals, when concealment will best suit

his purpose. . . . He appeals to the reason

by the presentation of elevating themes;

he delights the fancy with enrapturing

scenes; and he enlists the affections by

his eloquent portrayals of love and char-

ity. He excites the imagination to lofty

flights, leading men to take so great pride

in their own wisdom that in their hearts

they despise the Eternal One. That mighty

being who could take the world's Re-

deemer to an exceedingly high mountain

and bring before Him all the kingdoms

of the earth and the glory of them, will

present his temptations to men in a man-

ner to pervert the senses of all who are

not shielded by divine power."—The

Great Controversy,

page 554.

How is confusion sometimes

brought into the church? James 3:16.

Compare 1 Cor. 1:10, 11.

NorE.—"How true are the words of the

apostle, 'Where envying and strife is, there

is confusion and every evil work.' One

person in an institution or in a church

who gives loose rein to unkind thoughts

by speaking evil of the brethren, may stir

up the worst passions of the human heart,

and spread abroad a leaven of evil that

will work in all who come into associa-

tion with him. In this way the enemy of

all righteousness gains the victory, and the

result of his work is to make of no effect

the Saviour's prayer when He pleaded

that His disciples might be one as He

is one with the Father."—Ellen G. White

Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol.

7, p. 937.

The Beauty of Heavenly Wisdom

10.

Who is the source of true wis-

dom? James 3:17 (first part). Com-

pare James 1:17.

11.

To what does James point as

the first characteristic of divine wis-

dom? James 3:17 (first part).

NOTE.—"The apostle James declares that

the wisdom from above is 'first pure.'

"—

The Great Controversy,

page 474. The

context of this statement is worthy of

careful study.

"But the words of Jesus, 'Blessed are

the pure in heart,' have a deeper meaning

—not merely pure in the sense in which

the world understands purity, free from

that which is sensual, pure from lust, but

true in the hidden purposes and motives

of the soul, free from pride and self-

seeking, humble, unselfish, childlike."—

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing,

page 25.

"The pure in heart live as in the vis-

ible presence of God during the time He

apportions them in this world. And they

will also see Him face to face in the fu-

ture, immortal state, as did Adam when

he walked and talked with God in Eden."

p. 27.

12.

What further qualities of true

wisdom does James enumerate?

James 3:17 (second part).

13.

What is the final characteristic

of true wisdom? James 3:17 (last

part). Compare Rom. 12:9; 1 Peter

2:1.

14.

To what striking effect does

James point as the climax of true

wisdom? James 3:18.

NoTE.—"Christ is waiting with longing

desire for the manifestation of Himself

in His church. When the character of

Christ shall be perfectly reproduced in

His people, then He will come to claim

them as His own.

"It is the privilege of every Christian

not only to look for but to hasten the

coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. . . .

Were all who profess His name bearing

fruit to His glory, how quickly the whole

world would be sown with the seed of

the gospel. Quickly the last great harvest

would be ripened, and Christ would come

to gather the precious

grain."—Christ's

Object Lessons,

page 69.

Questions for Meditation

Have I learned the secret of true

meekness?

If obedience to God's command-

ments would make the ancient Israelites

"marvels of prosperity before the nations

of the world"

(Testimonies,

Vol. 6, p.

222), what about Seventh-day Adventists,

both individually and collectively, today ?

Am I enjoying the health that results

from walking in the path of wisdom?

[29

Lesson 9, for August 31, 1968

The Carnal Mind and the Spiritual Mind

MEMORY VERSE:

"Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will

flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse

your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded." James

4:7, 8.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Desire of Ages," pages 196-200; "Testimonies," Vol. 1, pp.

438-442; Vol. 8, pp. 312-318; "Selected Messages," Bk.

pp. 216-220;

"S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

STUDY AIM:

To show that "it is not alone the professed belief in the binding claims

of God's law that makes the Christian, but also the carrying out of that law."

—"Testimonies," Vol. 4, p. 58.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. The Wrong Motivation for Prayer

Selfishness—the basic cause of

strife and confusion. James 4:1.

The unrenewed heart cannot find

true satisfaction. James 4:2 (first

part).

Seeking happiness in the wrong

way. James 4:2 (last,

part).

Selfish motives result in disappoint-

ment. James 4:3.

II. Friendship With the World Incom-

patible With Friendship With God

5. God's estimate of worldly-minded

Christians. James 4:4 (first part).

To love worldliness means to be an

enemy of God. James 4:4 (last

part).

Human failure to appreciate

friendship with God. 1 Cor. 2:14.

Man's natural tendency. James 4:5.

III. The Triumph of Grace

God's grace greater than the power

of temptation. James 4:6 (first

part) ; Rom. 5:20, 21.

10.

God's grace given to the humble.

James 4:6 (last part).

11.

The secret of victory over the devil.

James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9.

12.

No divided loyalties. James 4:8, 9.

13.

Humility brings true satisfaction.

James 4:10.

THE LESSON

The Wrong Motivation for

Prayer

1. What

is the source of quarreling

and fighting in the church? James

4:1.

NOTE.—"The apostle now takes up the

specific evils within the church that are

the product of untamed tongues and strife-

ridden hearts. The root cause of all division

and confusion is self-interest."—S,D.A.

Bi-

ble Cov:n;entary,

on James 4:1.

Introduction

nature man is inclined to selfishness

and fleshly gratification: "The heart is

deceitful above all things, and desperately

wicked: who can know it?" Jer. 17:9.

Paul repeats this sentiment in Romans 8:

6-8, emphasizing the impossibility of living

to satisfy the demands of the unconverted

body and of being in harmony with God

at the same time. This never-ending strug-

gle between the "flesh" and the "spirit" is

discussed in the first part of the fourth

chapter of James, and the secret of victory

is pointed out.

[GO]

Does the indulgence of bodily

desires bring satisfaction? James 4:2

(first part).

NOTE.—"Lust." This is a different word

from that rendered "lusts" in the first

verse. Here the word is

epithunteo,

which

means "yearn for passionately."

"Self-interest, if unchecked, grows into

the sin of covetousness. . . A covetous

man never feels that he has fully acquired

all that he needs."—S.D.A.

Bible Contmen-

tary,

on James 4:2.

Why do illegitimate desires, con-

tention, and strife not bring happi-

ness? James 4:2 (last part).

NoTE.-

"These contentious ones de-

pended upon their own efforts for what

they desired instead of depending upon

God to provide what was best for them.

God has implanted legitimate desires and

basic wants within the human heart . ,

and, 'in part, happiness is dependent upon

satisfying those God-given desires. When

men attempt to satisfy these basic desires

in illegitimate ways, disappointment, envy,

and strife are certain to' follow."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on James 4:2..

What kind of prayer results in

disappointment? James 4:3:

NoTE.—"The Saviour longs to give us a

greater blessing than we ask; and He de-

lays the answer to our request that He

may show us the evil of our own hearts,

and our deep need of His grace. He desires

us to renounce the selfishness that leads us

to seek Him. Confessing our helplessness

and bitter need, we are to trust ourselves

wholly to His

love."—The Desire of Ages,

page 200.

Friendship With the World

incompatible With

Friendship With God

How does God regard professed

Christians who are friends of the

world? James 4:4 (first part).

NOTE.

-"It

was by associating with idola-

ters and joining in their festivities that the

Hebrews were led to transgress God's law,

and bring His judgments upon the nation.

So now it is by leading the followers of

Christ to associate with the ungodly and

unite in their amusements that Satan is

most successful in alluring them into sin.

`Come out from among them, and be ye

separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the

unclean.' 2 Cor. 6:17. God requires of His

people' now as great a distinction from the

world, in customs, habits, and principles,

as He required of Israel anciently. If they

faithfully follow the teachings of His Word,

this distinction will exist; it cannot be

otherwise. The warnings given to the He-

brews against assimilating with the heathen

were not more direct or explicit than are

those forbidding Christians to conform to

the spirit and customs of the ungodly.

Christ speaks to us, `Love not the world,

neither the things that are in the world. If

any man love the world, the love of the

Father is not in him' . . . The followers of

Christ are to separate themselves from

sinners, choosing their society only when

there is opportunity to do them good. We

cannot be too decided in shunning the com-

pany of those who exert an influence to

draw us away from God. While we pray,

`Lead us not into temptation,' we are to

shun temptation, so far as possible."—

Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 458, 459.

How does James stress that it is

impossible for friends of the world

to love God? James 4:4 (last part).

Compare Rom. 8:5-7 (R.S.V.); Matt.

6:24.

NOTE.—"Said the angel, . . . 'The spirit

and friendship of the world are at enmity

with God. When the truth in its simplicity

and strength, as it is in Jesus, is brought to

bear against the spirit of the world, it at

once awakens the spirit of persecution. Very

many who profess to be Christians have

not known God. The natural heart has not

been changed, and the carnal mind re-

mains at enmity with God. They are Satan's

faithful servants, notwithstanding they have

assumed another name.'

"—Early Writings,

pages 273, 274.

Why is it impossible for the nat-

ural man to appreciate the privilege

of friendship with God? 1 Cor. 2:14.

[31]

NorE.—"Precious jewels of truth, that

are of the highest value to the meek and

lowly ones who believe in Christ, are as

foolishness to him who is wise in the

world's estimation. But truth, eternal truth,

is ever present with the true believer. The

Spirit is the appointed instructor of such a

soul, his guide, his continual strength and

righteousness."—Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 6, p. 1085.

What is man's natural tendency?

James 4:5.

NorE.—"The friendship of church mem-

bers for the world grieves the 'jealous'

Spirit of God, who seeks our undivided af-

fections. Man's jealousy is selfish; God's

jealousy reflects simply His intense concern

for the welfare of His children."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on James 4:5.

The Triumph of Grace

What provision has God made

to enable His people to resist worldly

temptations? James 4:6 (first part);

Rom. 5:20, 21.

Norn.—"God demands undivided alle-

giance, but He also provides man with

sufficient strength to enable him to obey."

—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

on James 4:6.

10.

To whom does God

give

grace?

James 4:6 (last part). Compare Ps.

138:6.

11.

What is the secret of victory

over the devil? James 4:7; 1 Peter 5:9.

NOTE.—"How precious to the tempted

soul is this positive promise. Now if the

one in trouble and temptation keeps his

eye fixed on Jesus, and draws nigh to God,

talking of His goodness and mercy, Jesus

draws nigh to him, and his annoyances

that he thought almost unbearable van-

ish....

"The soul that loves God, loves to draw

strength from Him by constant communion

with Him. When it becomes the habit of the

soul to converse with God, the power of

the evil one is broken; for Satan cannot

abide near the soul that draws nigh unto

God."—Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

Vol. 7, p. 937.

12.

What further admonition is

given those who would resist world-

liness and enjoy communion with

God? James 4:8, 9.

NOTE.—"The Lord says, 'Draw nigh to

God.' How? By secret, earnest examina-

tion of your• own heart, by childlike, heart-

felt, humble dependence upon God, making

known all your weakness to Jesus, and by

confessing your sins. Thus you may draw

nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you.

"But let us read the remainder of the

lesson given for our instruction, that we

may more fully comprehend what it means

to draw nigh to God. 'Cleanse your hands,

ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye

double-minded.' The work that is essential

to be done by the sinner is here clearly

defined. It is a work not agreeable to the

inclination of the human heart; but unless

it is done the soul is not in a condition to

appreciate the purity and perfection of the

character of Christ, and in no condition

either to understand the offensiveness of

sin. The exhortation is given, 'Purify your

hearts, ye double-minded.' While professing

to be Christians, many have the mold of

the world upon them, and, their affections

are not set upon God. They are double-

minded, making an attempt to serve God

and mammon at the same time. . . .

"Of what profit is it to say pleasant

things, to deplore the work of Satan, and

yet at the same time to enter into the

fulfillment of all his devices? This is being

double-minded." Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 7, p. 938.

13.

What will be the result of true

humility? James 4:10. Compare Luke

18:9-14.

Nom—James here summarizes his coun-

sel concerning "an undivided loyalty to the

will of God. For an honest man,

true

I 821

picture of personal wretchedness produces

a humble spirit before God, who is ever

willing to forgive."—S.D.A.

Bible Commen-

tary,

on James 4:10.

"We may, by following the example of

the Saviour, be in holy communion with

Him; and by daily seeking to imitate His

character and follow His example, we shall

be a blessing to the world and shall secure

for ourselves contentment here and an

eternal reward

hereafter."—Testimonies,

Vol. 4, p. 227.

Questions for Meditation

Have I learned to pray uselfishly ?

Realizing that there is a certain type

of pleasure to be found in sin, am I suffi-

ciently spiritually motivated to deny my-

self the "pleasures of sin" for His sake

who gave up the pleasures of heaven for

me?

Has the "world" lost all its appeal, so

far as I am concerned, and can I say with

Paul, "For to me to live is Christ"? (Phil.

1:21.)

Lesson 10, for September 7, 1968

The Folly of Exalting Self

MEMORY VERSE:

"For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do

this, or that." James 4:15.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Desire of Ages," pages 685-694; "Thoughts From the Mount

of Blessing," pages 102, 123, 124, (1943 ed., pp. 177-179); "Christ's Object

Lessons," pages 390-404; "Prophets and Kings," pages 593-596; "The Min-

istry of Healing," pages 452-457; "Testimonies," Vol.

pp. 306-313; "S.D.A.

Bible Commentary."

STUDY AIM:

To become more mindful of our spiritual, mental, and physical weak-

ness, of our dependence on God in all things.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Criticism of Church Members

Rebuked

Brethren not to accuse one an-

other. James 4:11 (first part) ;

Eph. 4:31, 32 ; 1 Peter 2:1.

Fault-finding evidences a lack of

love. James 4:11 (second part) ;

Matt. 7:1-5.

He who criticizes others places

himself above the law. James 4:11

(last part).

One who cannot read the heart

cannot judge others. James

4:12.

II. Conscious Dependence on the

Lord's Will

5. To be absorbed in worldly business

is unwise. Luke 12:16-21.

6.. The uncertainty of tomorrow.

James 4:14 (first part) ; Prov. 27:1.

The brevity of life. James 4:14

(last part) ; Job 14:2 ; Ps. 102:3, 11.

The true Christian submits his

plans to God: James 4:15.

Jesus the supreme example of sub-

mission. John 6:38.

III. Self-glorification Leads to Sin

10.

Pride in being independent of God.

James 4:16 (first part).

11.

God's evaluation of false pride.

James 4:16 (last part).

12.

Deliberate neglect of known duty

is sin. James 4:17.

13.

Calm trust in God brings satis-

faction and peace. Prov. 3:5-8;

Isa. 26:3, 4.

[ 33

THE LESSON

3. What does the critic acknowl-

edge concerning his attitude to the

law? James 4:11 (last part).

Introduction

Beginning with verse 11 of chapter 4,

James returns to a consideration of the

evils that hamper the progress of the

church. Prominent among these evils is

self-exaltation, with its resulting attitude

of criticism and failure to recognize that

without Christ we can do nothing. Con-

sciousness of the frailty and brevity of hu-

man life leads to humble dependence, not

on one's own efforts and achievements, but

on God.

Criticism of Church Members

Rebuked

In their conversation, what

should Christians avoid? James 4:11

(first part); Eph. 4:31, 32; 1 Peter 2:1.

NOTE.—"We cannot read the heart. Our-

selves faulty, we are not qualified to sit

in judgment upon others. Finite men can

judge only from outward appearance. To

Him alone who knows the secret springs

of action, and who deals tenderly and

compassionately, is it given to decide the

case of every soul.. . .

"Those who condemn or criticize others,

proclaim themselves guilty, for they do the

same things. In condemning others, they

are passing sentence upon themselves, and

God declares that this sentence is just. He

accepts their own verdict against them-

selves."—Thoughts From the Mount of

Blessing,

page 124.

"He who indulges a censorious spirit is

guilty of greater sin than is the one he

accuses, for he not only commits the same

sin, but adds to it conceit and censorious-

ness."—Ibid.,

p. 125.

What does the fault-finding critic

reveal concerning himself? James 4:

11 (second part); Matt. 7:1-5.

NOTE.—"Harsh judgment of any kind is

inconsistent with the spirit of the moral

law. The principle of love is violated by the

desire for self-assertion and by criticism of

others."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

James 4:11.

NOTE.—"It should not be regarded as a

light thing to speak evil of others or to

make ourselves judges of their motives or

actions. 'He that speaketh evil of his

brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh

evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but

if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer

of the law, but a judge.' James 4:11. There

is but one Judge—He 'who both will bring

to light the hidden things of darkness, and

will make manifest the counsels of the

hearts.' 1 Cor. 4:5. And whoever takes it

upon himself to judge and condemn his

fellowmen is usurping the prerogative of

the

Creator."—Patriarchs and Prophets,

pages 385, 386.

In view of the fact that there is

only one infallible Judge, what ques-

tion does James ask of the critic who

judges his brother's motives? James

4:12. Compare Rom. 14:4, 11-13.

Conscious Dependence on the

Lord's Will

By what parable did Jesus show

the folly of planning for future activi-

ties without considering the will of

God? Luke 12:16-21. Compare James

4:13.

NOTE.—"When Christ was on earth, He

was brought in contact with some whose

imaginations were fevered with the hope

of worldly gain. They were never at rest,

but were constantly trying something new,

and their extravagant expectations were

aroused only to be disappointed. Jesus

knew the wants of the human heart, which

are the same in all ages; and He called

their.

attention to the only permanent riches.

. . . He tells men of treasure beyond esti-

mate, which is within the reach of all. He

came to earth to guide their minds in their

search for this treasure. The way is

[34

]

marked out; the very poorest who will

follow Him will be made richer than the

most wealthy upon earth who know not

Jesus, and they will be made increasingly

rich by sharing their happiness with

others."—Testimonies,

Vol. 5, pp. 261, 262.

How much can a man know

about tomorrow? James 4:14 (first

part); Prov. 27:1.

What is said of the frailty of hu-

man life? James 4:14 (last part); Job

14:2; Ps. 102:3, 11.

NoTE.—Realizing that human life is in-

deed frail and of • short duration, men

should understand the folly of exerting all

their energies in the acquisition of material

wealth; they should spend their time in

preparation for eternity.

"We are now upon the very borders of

the eternal world, but it is the purpose of

the adversary of souls to lead us to put

far off the close of time. Satan will in

every conceivable manner assail those who

profess to be the commandment-keeping

people of God and to be waiting for the

second appearing of our Saviour in the

clouds of heaven with power and great

glory. He will lead as many as possible to

put off the evil day and become in spirit

like the world, imitating its customs. I felt

alarmed as I saw that the spirit of the

world was controlling the hearts and minds

of many who make a high profession of the

truth. Selfishness and self-indulgence are

cherished by them, but true godliness and

sterling integrity are not cultivated."—

Testimonies,

Vol. 4, p. 306.

How will a Christian qualify his

plans and decisions? James 4:15.

NoTE.—"James does not mean that the

Christian should always speak these words,

but that the spirit of submission reflected

by them actually should guide every plan.

"The first man . . . neglects God's will

for his future in preference for material

gain. The second church member realizes

the uncertainty of life and endeavors to

make the service of God primary in his

life. He knows that God has a special plan

for him, and that only by adopting that

plan will he find true satisfaction. A con-

sistent application of this principle may

mean that some of life's best-laid plans

will be altered, in order that God's better

plan may succeed. This the genuine Chris-

tian accepts with joy in the assurance that

God controls his life. . . .

"When men submit to the will of God

(v. 7) they do well to remember that God's

ways are often different from those of men

(cf. Isa. 55:8, 9). Consequently, a faithful

Christian faces each day with confidence

in divine guidance in all his enterprises,

whether 'this, or that.'

"—S.D.A. Bible

Commentary,

on James 4:15.

What did Jesus say of His own

submission to the will of His Father?

John 6:38. Compare Matt. 26:39.

NOTE.—"So utterly was Christ emptied

of self that He made no plans for Himself.

He accepted God's plans for Him, and day

by day the Father unfolded His plans. So

should we depend upon God, that our lives

may be the simple outworking of His will."

—The Desire of Ages,

page 208.

Self-glorification Leads to Sin

10.

What is characteristic of those

who trust in themselves and their own

achievements? James 4:16 (first part).

NOTE.—"The way of the world is to

begin with pomp and boasting. God's way

is to make the day of small things the

beginning of the glorious triumph of truth

and righteousness."—Prophets

and Kings,

page 595.

11.

How does God regard pride in

one's own accomplishments? James

4:16 (last part). Compare 1 Cor. 5:6.

[ 35 ]

NOTE.—"Because it exalts self-sufficiency

and fosters presumption, this type of think-

ing is basically wicked and akin to the

spirit of Lucifer."—S.D.A.

Bible Commen-

tary,

on James 4:16.

12. What is deliberate neglect of

known duty called? James 4:17. Com-

pare Matt. 25:24-28; Luke 12:47; John

9:41.

NOTE.—"Deliberate evasion of known

duty is forthright rebellion against the

will of God. This fact amplifies the diffi-

culty confronting the 'double-minded' man

. . . , the pseudoreligious man . . . , the

man of dead faith . . . , and the 'earthly'

man. . . . All these characteristics of im-

perfect church members are the result of

incomplete commitment to a full per-

formance of the commandments of God.

They vacillate between what they know

they ought to do and what they personally

wish to do .. . , with the result that they

`miss the mark' of unreserved submission to

the will of God."—S.D.A.

Bible Commen-

tary,

on James 4:17.

13. How may we, in the turmoil

of this life, find satisfaction and peace?

Prov. 3:5-8; Isa. 26:3, 4.

NOTE.—"Whatever position in life we

may occupy, whatever our business, we

must be humble enough to feel our need

of help; we must lean implicitly on the

teachings of God's Word, acknowledge His

providence in all things, and be faithful in

pouring out our souls in prayer. Lean to

your own understanding, dear brethren, as

you make your way through the world, and

you will reap sorrow and disappointment.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and

He will guide your steps in wisdom, and

your interests will be safe for this world

and for the

next."—Testimonies, Vol.

page 427.

Questions for Meditation

Am I demonstrating a lack of love

when I find fault with my brethren?

Does my life show that I realize the

brevity of• this earthly existence?

Is it ever excusable to avoid the per-

formance of a known duty?

Lesson 11, for September 14, 1968

Warning Against Improper Acquisition and Use of Wealth

MEMORY VERSE:

"But seek

ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness;

and all these things shall be added unto you." Matt. 6:33.

STUDY HELPS:

"Counsels on Stewardship," pages 20-23, 150-153, 217-244; "Testi-

monies," Vol. 2, pp. 268-288; Vol. 9, pp. 11-18; "Spiritual Gifts," Vol. 2, pp.

230-238, 245-250; "S.D.A. Bible Commentary."

STUDY AIM:

To increase our awareness of the bewitching danger of materialism

and the infinite value of true riches.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Judgments Upon the Greedy Rich

The rich admonished to lament.

James 5:1; Luke 6:24, 25.

Hoarded wealth of no benefit to

its owners. James 5:2 (first part).

Costly garments ruined, and no

[

861

source of pride to their wearers.

James 5:2 (last part).

Jesus' advice on acquiring riches.

Matt. 6:19-21.

God's counsel to the Laodicean

rich. Rev. 3:17, 18.

Hoarded wealth testifies against its

possessors. James 5:3 (first part).

Amassing of wealth in "the last

days." James 5:3 (last part).

II. Why Divine Judgment Befalls the

Rich

Withholding a just wage. James

5:4 (first part).

Defraudinc

of the poor on record

in heaven. James 5:4 (last part).

10.

Selfish gratification of carnal

appetites. James 5:5 (first part).

11.

Fate of the greedy. James 5:5

(last part).

12.

Wealth used to secure the unjust

condemnation of the innocent poor.

James 5:6.

13.

The certainty of retribution.

Rom. 2:4-6; 14:12; Rev. 22:12.

THE LESSON

Introduction

"In this life our possessions are limited,

but the great treasure that God offers in

His gift to the world, is unlimited. It com-

prehends every human desire, and goes far

beyond our human calculations. In the

great day of final decision, when every man

shall be judged according to his deeds,

every voice, of self-justification will be

hushed; for it will be seen that in His gift

to the human race the Father gave all He

had to give, and that they are without

excuse who have refused to accept the

gracious offering."—Counsels

on Steward-

ship,

page 21.

Judgments Upon

the Greedy

Rich

1. Why are the rich told to cry out

in distress? James 5:1; Luke 6:24, 25.

NOTE.—"Very few realize the strength

of their love for money until the test is

brought to bear upon them. Many who

profess to be Christ's followers then show

that they are unprepared for heaven. Their

works testify that they love wealth more

than their neighbor or their God. . . .

"The influence of the love of money over

the human mind is almost paralyzing.

Riches infatuate, and cause many who

possess them to act as though they were

bereft of reason. . . .

"But many show by their works that

they dare not trust the bank of heaven.

They choose to trust their means in the

earth, rather than to send it before them

to heaven. These have a great work to do

to overcome covetousness and love of the

world. Rich poor men, professing to serve

God, are objects of pity. While they pro-

fess to know God, in works they deny

Him. How great is the darkness of such!

They profess faith in the truth, but their

works do not correspond with their pro-

fession. The love of riches makes men self-

ish, exacting, and overbearing."—Counsels

on Stewardship,

pages 150, 151.

What happens to material bless-

ings that are hoarded, and not used

to God's glory? James 5:2 (first part).

NoTE.—The Greek word translated "cor-

rupted" in James 5:2 has the connotation

rotted

. spoiled.

If the wealthy land-

owner stored up the products of his land

and allowed them to spoil instead of using

them to relieve the sufferings of the poor,

they did not benefit him.

"The foolish rich man of Christ's parable

had most of his wealth in the products of

the soil. . . . These 'riches' are worthless

because they foster self-gratification and

are acquired at the expense of the personal

rights of others (see James 5:4). With all

this earthly wealth, the unconverted rich

man is 'not rich toward God.'

"—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on James 5:2.

What will happen to the large

wardrobes of the rich? James 5:2 (last

part).

NOTE.—

Let the carnal heart be changed,

and it will not be such drudgery, ye cold-

hearted professors, to serve God. All that

[37

love of dress and pride of appearance will

be gone. The time that you spend standing

before the glass preparing the hair to please

the eye, should be devoted to prayer and

searching of heart. There will be no place

for outward adornment in the sanctified

heart; but there will be an earnest, anxious

seeking for the inward adorning, the Chris-

tian graces—the fruits of the Spirit of

God. . . .

"Subdue the carnal mind, reform the life,

and the poor mortal frame will not be so

idolized. If the heart is reformed, it will

be seen in the outward appearance. If

Christ be in us the hope of glory, we shall

discover such matchless charms in Him that

the soul will be enamored. It will cleave to

Him, choose to love Him, and in admira-

tion of Him, self will be forgotten. Jesus

will be magnified and adored, and self

abased and

humbled."—Testimonies,

Vol. 1,

pp. 162, 163.

4. Why does Jesus admonish us not

to strive for earthly wealth, but to lay

up treasure in heaven? Matt. 6:19-21.

NOTE.—"Many who profess the truth

are growing close and covetous. They need

to be alarmed for themselves. They have

so much of their treasure upon the earth

that their hearts are on their treasure.

Much the larger share of their treasure is

in this world and but little in heaven;

therefore their affections are placed on

earthly possessions instead of on the heav-

enly

inheritance."—Testimonies,

Vol. 1, p.

494.

' 5. What urgent counsel does God

send to those who, in these last days,

consider themselves rich and "in need

of nothing"? Rev. 3:17, 18.

NOTE.—"The wares of heaven are offered

to our churches. Every individual needs to

have a decided interest in the invitation of

Christ. Brethren and sisters, are your

thoughts after this order? 'These sharp,

decided words do not mean me; I am in

a fairly good condition spiritually, though

I may not have all the fervor and zeal that

some have. I believe the truth. Those to

whom this message belongs may take it.

I think some need it.' You who think and

reason thus, be assured that you are the

very ones to whom this message

belongs.

While the costly wares of heaven are open

before you, draw nigh and buy that which

you have lost—the gold of love and faith,

and the white raiment which is the righ-

teousness of Christ."—Ellen G. White Com-

ments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 7,

pp. 964, 965.

What does hoarded wealth do

against those who hoard it? James

5:3 (first part).

NOTE.—"It is God who gives men power

to get wealth, and He has bestowed this

ability, not as a means of gratifying self,

but as a means of returning to God His

own. With this

object it is not a sin to

acquire means.. . .

"But of what value is untold wealth if it

is hoarded in expensive mansions or in

bank stocks? What do these weigh in com-

parison with the salvation of one soul for

whom the Son of the infinite God has

died?"—Testimonies,

Vol. 6, pp. 452, 453.

When, in the world's history,

would men give special attention to

the amassing of wealth? James 5:3

(last part).

NOTE.—"In this generation the desire for

gain is the absorbing passion. Wealth is

often obtained by fraud. There are multi-

tudes struggling with poverty, compelled

to labor hard for small wages, unable to

secure even the barest necessities of life.

Toil and deprivation, with no hope of

better things, make their burden heavy.

Careworn and oppressed, they know not

where to turn for relief. And all this that

the rich may support their extravagance

or indulge their desire to hoard

!"—Proph-

ets and Kings,

pages 650, 651.

[181

Why Divine Judgment Befalls

the Rich

What charge does God make

against those who neglect prompt

payment of their employees? James

5:4 (first part). Compare Lev. 19:13;

Jer. 22:13, 14.

NOTE.—"The customs of the world are no

criterion for the Christian. He is not to

imitate its sharp practices, its overreaching,

its extortion. . . . Every wrong done to the

children of God is done to Christ Himself

in the person of His saints. Every attempt

to take advantage of the ignorance, weak-

ness, or misfortune of another is registered

as fraud in the ledger of

heaven."—Prophets

and Kings,

pages 651, 652.

Who takes note of the injustice

practiced upon the poor by the selfish

rich? James 5:4 (last part). Compare

Deut. 24:14, 15.

10.

How do the wealthy use the

riches they gain by oppressing the

poor? James 5:5 (first part).

NoTE.—"The more means we expend

display and self-indulgence, the less we can

have to feed the hungry and clothe the

naked. Every penny used unnecessarily de-

prives the spender of a precious opportu-

nity of doing good. It is robbing God of the

honor and glory which should flow back

to Him through the improvement of His

entrusted

talents."—Christ's Object Les-

sons,

page 352.

11.

To what are the greedy rich

compared? James 5:5 (last part). Com-

pare 2 Tim. 3:1, 2.

NOTE.—"You have lived on earth in

wanton luxury, fattening yourselves like

cattle—and the day for slaughter has

come." James 5:5, N.E.B.

"The day of reckoning is ahead for all,

good or bad. . . . A life nourished on self-

gratification is like that of a sheep being

fattened for the slaughter (cf. James 5:3).

In the OT this phrase is synonymous with

`a day of judgment' (see Jer. 12:3 ;

25:

34)."—S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

on James

5:5.

12.

In what perversion of justice

have the rich engaged, at the ex-

pense of the poor? James 5:6.

NOTE.—"Who reads the warnings given

by the fast-fulfilling signs of the times?

What impression is made upon worldlings?

What change is seen in their attitude? No

more than was seen in the attitude of the

inhabitants of the Noachian world. Ab-

sorbed in worldly business and pleasure, the

antediluvians 'knew not until the Flood

came, and took them all away.' Matt. 24:

39. They had heaven-sent warnings, but

they refused to listen. And today the world,

utterly regardless of the warning voice of

God, is hurrying on to eternal ruin."—Tes-

timonies,

Vol. 9, p. 14.

13.

How is the righteous judgment

of God related to the life of each in-

dividual? Rom. 2:4-6; 14:12; Rev.

22:12.

NorE.—"It is while men are still dwell-

ing upon the earth that the work of in-

vestigative judgment takes place in the

courts of heaven. The lives of all His pro-

fessed followers pass in review before God.

All are examined according to the record

of the books of heaven, and according to

his deeds the destiny of each is forever

fixed."—Christ's Object Lessons,

page 310.

Questions for Meditation

Do the interests of the "kingdom of

God and His righteousness" always receive

my first consideration?

After I pay my tithe and give rfiy

offerings, do I use the rest of my income

to the glory of God?

[39

Lesson 12, for September 21, 1968

Patient Endurance and the Corning of Christ

MEMORY VERSE:

"For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the

will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and He that

shall come will come, and will not tarry." Heb. 10:36, 37.

STUDY HELPS:

"Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing," pages 18-28 (1943 ed.,

pp. 34-48; "Christ's Object Lessons," pages 56-61; "Testimonies," Vol. 9, pp.

285-288; "Testimonies to Ministers," pages 506-512; "S.D.A. Bible Commen-

tary."

STUDY AIM: To find

encouragement for remaining faithful under adversity; to fix

our gaze not upon the transient experiences of this world, but upon the soon

coming of our King.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Patient Endurance in View of

Christ's Coming

The saints are to endure patiently.

James 5:7 (first part).

The promise of Christ's return a

source of comfort. 1 Thess.

4:16-18.

Christ's promise brings confident

assurance. John 14:1-3.

The second advent, the goal

of the

Christian hope. Titus 2:13.

The husbandman's patience.

James 5:7 (second part).

II. The Early and the Latter Rain

6. The latter rain essential to matur-

ing the harvest. James 5:7 (last

part).

Israel assured of sufficient rainfall.

Deut. 11:13-15.

The early and the latter rain.

Hosea 6:3.

The antitypical early rain at

Pentecost. Acts 2:1-4, 16-21.

10.

We are to ask for the latter rain

at the appropriate time. Zech. 10:1.

III. The Patient Endurance of the Saints

11.

Patience an outstanding character-

istic of the true church in the last

days. Rev. 14:12 (first part).

12.

Admonition to patience in view

of the coming of Christ. James 5:8.

13.

Jesus will come when the harvest

is ripe. Rev. 14:14-16.

THE LESSON

beyond, the wide, unbounded future of

glory that is for the redeemed."—Testi-

monies,

Vol. 9, pp. 287, 288.

Patient Endurance in View of

Christ's Coming

1. For how long are believers to

endure the unjust adversities of life?

James 5:7 (first part).

NorE.—"The world has become bold in

transgression of God's law. Because of His

long forebearance, men have trampled upon

His authority. They have strengthened one

Introduction

"It will not be long till we shall see

Him in whom our hopes of eternal life are

centered. And in His presence, all the trials

and sufferings of this life will be as noth-

ingness. 'Cast not away therefore your

confidence, which hath great recompense

of reward. For ye have need of patience,

that, after ye have done the will of God,

ye might receive the promise. For yet a

little while, and He that shall come will

come, and will not tarry.' Heb. 10:35-37.

Look up, look up, and let your faith con-

tinually increase. Let this faith guide you

along the narrow path that leads through

the gates of the City of God into the great

another in oppression and cruelty toward

His heritage, saying, 'How doth God know?

and is there knowledge in the Most High?'

. . . But there is a line beyond which they

cannot pass. The time is near when they

will have reached the prescribed limit—

even now they have almost exceeded the

bounds of the long-suffering of God, the

limits of His grace, the limits of His

mercy. The Lord will interpose to vindi-

cate His own honor, to deliver His people,

and to repress the swellings of unrighteous-

ness."—Christ's Object Lessons,

pages 177,

178.

In what does Paul advise believ-

ers to find comfort? 1 Thess 4:16-18.

NOTE.—"God designs that His people

shall fix their eyes heavenward, looking

for the glorious appearing of our Lord and

Saviour Jesus Christ. While the attention

of worldlings is turned to various enter-

prises, ours should be to the heavens; our

faith should reach further and further into

the glorious mysteries of the heavenly

treasure, drawing the precious, divine rays

of light from the heavenly sanctuary to

shine in our hearts, as they shine upon the

face of Jesus. . . . By watching they be-

come strong; they overcome sloth and self-

ishness and love of ease. Affliction's fire

kindles upon them, and the waiting time

seems long. They sometimes grieve, and

faith falters; but they rally again, over-

come their fears and doubts, and while

their eyes are directed heavenward, say to

their adversaries: 'I am watching, I am

waiting the return of my Lord. I will glory

in tribulation, in affliction, in necessities.'"

—Testimonies,

Vol. 2, pp. 194, 195.

What promise of Jesus removes

all cause for perplexity and anxiety?

John 14:1-3.

NOTE.—" 'Jesus has gone to prepare man-

sions for us. . . . It is these mansions that

I am looking to ; it is not the earthly

mansions here, for erelong they are to be

shaken down by the mighty earthquake;

but those heavenly mansions that Christ

has gone to prepare for the faithful.

" 'We have no home here; we are only

pilgrims and strangers, passing to a better

country, even a heavenly. Place your mind

upon these things, and while you are doing

this, Christ will be right by your side. May

God help us to win the precious boon of

eternal

life.'"—Life Sketches,

pages 293,

294.

What is the great objective of the

Christian's hope? Titus 2:13.

NorE.—"The coming of the Lord has

been in all ages the hope of His true follow-

ers. The Saviour's parting promise upon

Olivet, that He would come again, lighted

up the future for His disciples, filling their

hearts with joy and hope that sorrow could

not quench nor trials dim. Amid suffering

and persecution, 'the appearing of the great

God and our Saviour Jesus Christ' was the

`blessed hope.'

"—The Great Controversy,

page 302.

By what illustration does James

show the need of patiently waiting

for God's plan to mature? James 5:7

(second part). Compare Heb. 10:

35-37.

NorE.—"The Christian is to wait with

patience for the fruition in his life of the

Word of God. Often when we pray for the

graces of the Spirit, God works to answer

our prayers by placing us in circumstances

to develop these fruits; but we do not un-

derstand His purpose, and wonder, and are

dismayed. Yet none can develop these

graces except through the process of growth

and fruit bearing. Our part is to receive

God's Word and to hold it fast, yielding

ourselves fully to its control, and its pur-

pose in us will be accomplished."—Christ's

Object Lessons,

page 61.

The Early and the Latter Rain

For how long must the husband-

man exercise patience? James 5:7 (last

part).

NoTE.—"There is nothing in the original

to justify the insertion of the word

long

before patience, and it is omitted in R.V.

and R.S.V. As a matter of fact, the time

[ 41 ]

between seedtime, or the first appearance

of the blade, and harvest was roughly

speaking four months (.see John 4:35) ;

not a very long period, but fraught with

much anxiety in a country which was ut-

terly dependent upon the early and latter

rain, the first due soon after sowing and

the second when the crop was ripening.

The faithful Jew knew, however, that God

would be true to His promise that if His

people kept His commandments, He would

give them 'the first rain and the latter

rain' (Deut. 11:14) ; and the prophet bids

the children of Zion be glad and rejoice in

the Lord because He caused to come down

for them 'the former and the latter rain'

(Joel 2:23). So the farmer's patience

for

(R.V. 'over') his land was more in the

nature of confident expectancy. His faith

in the reliability of God acted as a re-

straining and controlling influence during

what might otherwise have been a time

of acute and enervating anxiety. In the

same way, the faithful Christian knows

that Christ will be true to His promise to

come again to His people."—R. V. G.

Tasker,

The Tyndale New Testament Com-

mentaries, The General Epistle of James,

pages 118, 119.

What assurance did God give

ancient Israel concerning the certainty

of the harvest? Deut. 11:13-15.

How does Hosea illustrate the

coming of the Lord to bless His peo-

ple? Hosea 6:3.

NoTE.—"The advent movement of 1840-

44 was a glorious manifestation of the

power of God; the first angel's message

was carried to every missionary station in

the world, and in some countries there was

the greatest religious interest which has

been witnessed in any land since the

Reformation of the sixteenth century; but

these are to be exceeded by the mighty

movement under the last warning of the

third angel. . .

"The great work of the gospel is not to

close with less manifestation of the power

of God than marked its opening. The

prophecies which were fulfilled' in the out-

pouring of the former rain at the opening

of the gospel are again to be fulfilled in

the latter rain at its close."—The

Great

Controversy,

pages 611, 612.

What prophecy was partially ful-

filled at Pentecost? In what condition

of heart were the apostles at that

time? Acts 2:1-4, 16-21. Compare Joel

2:28, 29.

NOTE.—"God is willing to give us a

similar blessing, when we seek for it as

earnestly. . . •

"It is with an earnest longing that I

look forward to the time when the events

of the Day of Pentecost shall be repeated

with even greater power than on that

occasion. John says, 'I saw another angel

come down from heaven, having great

power; and the earth was lightened with

his glory.' Then, as at the Pentecostal sea-

son, the people will hear the truth spoken

to them, every man in his own tongue."—

Ellen G. White Comments,

S.D.A. Bible

Commentary,

Vol. 6, p. 1055.

10.

What should the. church do "in

the time of the latter rain"? Zech.

10:1.

Non.—"The descent of the Holy Spirit

upon the church is looked forward to as in

the future; but it is the privilege of the

church to have it now. Seek for it, pray

for it, believe for it. We must have it, and

Heaven is waiting to bestow it. . . .

"Let Christians . . . ask in faith for the

promised blessing, and it will come."—

Evangelism,

page 701. See also

Early Writ-

ings,

page 271.

The Patient Endurance of

the Saints

11.

What outstanding characteris-

tic of the saints in the closing days of

the world's history was shown to the

revelator? Rev. 14:12 (first part).

12.

What reason does. James give

for exercising steadfast endurance?

James 5:8.

[ 42 ]

NOTE.-"Although

Jesus said that no

man knows the 'day and hour' of His sec-

ond advent, He encouraged Christians to

understand the times and to 'know' when

the advent draws near. . . . Christ admon-

ished His disciples ever to be in readiness

for His return, and devout Christians in all

ages have treasured the hope that His

advent might be near in their

day."-S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

on James 5:8.

13. At what point in the experience

of His people will Jesus come to reap

the harvest of earth? Rev. 14:14-16.

Compare Matt. 13:39.

NOTE.

-"The

latter rain, ripening earth's

harvest, represents the spiritual grace that

prepares the church for the coming of the

Son of man. But unless the former rain

has fallen, there will be no life; the green

blade will not spring up. Unless the early

showers have done their work, the latter

rain can bring no seed to perfection."-

Testimonies to Ministers,

page 506.

"`When the fruit is brought forth, im-

mediately He putteth in the sickle, because

the harvest is come.' Christ is waiting with

longing desire for the manifestation of

Himself in His church. When the char-

acter of Christ shall be perfectly reproduced

in His people, then He will come to claim

them as His

own."-Christ's Object Les-

sons,

page 69.

Questions for Meditation

Do I practice patient endurance in

difficult situations?

Does my confidence in the certainty

of the soon coming of Jesus dispel anxiety

from my experience?

Am I ready for the latter rain?

Lesson 13, for September 28, 1968

Closing Admonitions

MEMORY VERSE:

"Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another,

that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man

availeth much." James. 5:16.

STUDY HELPS:

"The Ministry of Healing," pages 219-233; "Counsels on Health,"

pages 373-382; "Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing," pages 13-18, 29-35

(1943 ed., pp. 29-33, 49-58); "Testimonies to Ministers," pages 125-131; "Steps

to Christ," chapter "Confession"; "Testimonies," Vol. 5, pp. 53-62;

"S.D.A.

Bible Commentary."

STUDY AIM:

To benefit by the

valuable instruction in practical godliness found

James 5:9-20.

Lesson Outline:

Introduction

I. Learn to Endure Suffering

Patiently

Do not complain against one an-

other. James 5:9; 4:11.

Faithful followers of Christ always

suffer. James 5:10; 2 Tim. 3:12.

Those who suffer patiently are

blessed. James 5:11 (first part).

Job's experience an illustration

of this blessedness. James 5:11

(last part).

A warning against swearing.

James 5:12.

II. Pray Always

attitude of confident trust.

James 5:13 ; 1 Thess 5:17.

Prayer for the sick. James 5:14,

15.

How to unite alienated hearts.

James 5:16 (first part) ; Matt.

5:23, 24.

The effectiveness of a righteous

man's prayers. James 5:16 (last

part).

10.

Elijah's prayer for drought. James

5:17; Luke 4:25; 1 Kings

17:1.

11.

Elijah's prayer for rain. James

5 : 18 ; 1• Kings 18:41-45.

12.

Elijah a type of God's messengers

in the last days. Mal. 4:5,

[ 48 1

Ill. James's Solicitude for His

Brethren

13. The apostle's loving concern for

his brethren. James 1:2 ; 2:1;

3:1, 10; 4:11; 5:7, 10, 12.

14. An appeal to rescue and restore

erring brethren. Janes 5:19, 20.

THE LESSON

Introduction

The concluding portion of James 5 sums

up the apostle's portrayal of the successful

Christian life. There is instruction con-

cerning simplicity and purity of speech,

emphasis on the need for continual com-

munion with heaven in all the experiences

of life, and a final appeal to exert the ut-

most effort on behalf of those who know

not the joy of salvation.

"Read the second chapter of James.

Practice the truth in your daily life and

you will know the work that the Lord has

given you to do. Read also the fourth

chapter, especially verses 5-12; and chap-

ter 5, especially verses 13-20. These chap-

ters are a dead letter to the larger number

of those who claim to be Seventh-day Ad-

ventists. I am directed to point you to

these scriptures, and to the seventh chapter

of Matthew. You need to study every word

as for your

life."—Testimonies to Ministers,

page 125.

Learn to Endure Suffering

Patiently

1. What will be the result of blam-

ing others for our troubles? James

9; 4:11.

NOTE.—"To

grumble and to find fault is

as serious a shortcoming as overt condem-

nation, and reveals an unloving, contentious

spirit. ...

"James here emphasizes the immediacy

of the advent and that the times demand

a prepared character to meet the Lord.

There is no time for finding fault with

others."—S.D.A.

Bible Commentary,

James 5:9.

2. How have faithful witnesses for

Christ always been treated? James

10; 2 Tim.

3:12.

NorE.—"While slander may blacken the

reputation, it cannot stain the character.

That is in God's keeping. So long as we

do not consent to sin, there is no power,

whether human or satanic, that can bring

a stain upon the soul. A man whose heart

is stayed upon God is just the same in the

hour of his most afflicting trials and most

discouraging surroundings as when he was

in prosperity, when the light and favor of

God seemed to be upon

him."—Thoughts

From the Mount of Blessing,

page 32.

How are those who suffer pa-

tiently to be regarded? James

5:11

(first part). Compare Matt.

5:10-12.

NoTE.—"Constant faithfulness amid the

problems of life . . . reveals an undivided

loyalty to God and becomes a requisite

for eternal life."—S.D.A.

Bible Commen-

tary,

on James 5:11.

Whose experience is cited as an

illustration of the blessing that comes

to those who remain loyal under af-

fliction? James

5:11

(last part). Com-

pare Job

42:10-17.

What counsel does James give

about placing oneself under oath in

trivial matters? James

5:12.

Compare

Matt.

5:33-37.

NorE.—"Our Saviour did not, however,

forbid the use of the judicial oath, in

which God is solemnly called to witness

that what is said is truth and nothing but

the truth. Jesus Himself, at His trial be-

fore the Sanhedrin, did not refuse to

testify under oath. . . Had Christ in the

Sermon on the Mount condemned the

judicial oath, He would at His trial have

[

44]

reproved the high priest and thus, for the

benefit of His followers, have enforced

His own teaching. . . .

"These words condemn all those mean-

ingless phrases and expletives that border

on profanity. They condemn the deceptive

compliments, the evasion of truth, the

flattering phrases, the exaggerations, the

misrepresentations in trade, that are current

in society and in the business world. They

teach that no one who tries to appear what

he is not, or whose words do not con-

vey the real sentiment of his heart, can

be called truthful."—Thoughts

From the

Mount of Blessing,

pages 66-68.

Pray Always

What attitude will the true

Christian maintain, both in afflic-

tion and in prosperity? James 5:13;

1 Thess. 5:17.

What counsel is given in regard

to prayer for the sick? James 5:14, 15.

NOTE.—"I understand the text in James

is to be carried out when a person is sick

upon his bed, if he calls for the elders of

the church, and they carry out the direc-

tions in James, anointing the sick with oil

in the name of the Lord, praying over him

the prayer of faith. We read, 'The prayer

of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord

shall raise him up; and if he have com-

mitted sins, they shall be forgiven him.'

"It cannot be our duty to call for the

elders of the church for every little ailment

we have. . . . But the Lord gives us the

privilege of seeking Him individually in

earnest prayer, or unburdening our souls

to Him, keeping nothing from Him who

has invited us, 'Come unto Me, all ye that

labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give

you rest.' Oh, how grateful we should be

that Jesus is willing and able to bear all

our infirmities and strengthen and heal

all our diseases if it will be for our good

and for His

glory."—Medical Ministry,

pages 16, 17.

What course is to be followed

when brethren have wronged one an-

other? James 5:16 (first part); Matt.

5:23, 24.

NOTE.—"When one who professes to

serve God wrongs or injures a brother, he

misrepresents the character of God to that

brother, and the wrong must be confessed,

he must acknowledge it to be sin, in order

to be in harmony with God....

"If matters of difficulty between brethren

were not laid open before others, but

frankly spoken of between themselves in

the spirit of Christian love, how much

evil might be prevented! How many roots

of bitterness whereby many are defiled

would be destroyed, and how closely and

tenderly might the followers of Christ be

united in His

love!"—Thoughts From the

Mount of Blessing,

pages 58, 59.

How effective is a righteous

man's prayer? James 5:16 (last part).

Compare Joshua 10:12-14; Dan. 2:17-

19, 23.

NOTE.—"He who strives for eloquent

language when praying is entirely out of

place. The eloquence that God accepts is

the earnest, longing cry of the soul which

feels that it must have help.

"Long prayers are not essential. Those

who labor in the right spirit will pray in

the right spirit. He who labors as Christ

labored will be in earnest when he prays.

And the Word of God assures us, 'The

effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man

availeth much.'"—Ellen G. White Com-

ments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 7,

p. 939.

10.

How effective was Elijah's

prayer for drought? James 5:17; Luke

4:25; 1 Kings 17:1.

NOTE.—"His word had locked up the

treasures of heaven, and his word only

could open them again. . . .

"God always has men to whom He in-

trusts His message. His Spirit moves upon

their hearts, and constrains them to speak.

Stimulated by holy zeal, and with the

divine impulse strong upon them, they

enter upon the performance of their duty

without coldly calculating the consequences

of speaking to the people the word which

the Lord has given them. . . .

[45

"The world is full of flatterers and dis-

semblers who have yielded to the desire

to please; but the faithful men, who do

not study self-interest, but love their

brethren too well to suffer sin upon them,

are few indeed."—Ellen G. White Com-

ments,

S.D.A. Bible Commentary,

Vol. 2,

p. 1034.

11.

How did God honor the prayer

of Elijah after three and a half years

of drought? James 5:18; 1 Kings 18:

41-45.

NOTE.—"I asked the angel why there

was no more faith and power in Israel. He

said, 'Ye let go of the arm of the Lord

too soon. Press your petitions to the throne,

and hold on by strong faith. The promises

are sure. Believe ye receive the things ye

ask for, and ye shall have them.' . . . If

the enemy can lead the desponding to take

their eyes off from Jesus, and look to them-

selves, and dwell upon their own unworthi-

ness, instead of dwelling upon the worthi-

ness of Jesus, His love,, His merits, and

His great mercy, he will get away their

shield of faith and gain his object; they

will be exposed to his fiery temptations.

The weak should therefore look to Jesus,

and believe in Him; they then exercise

faith."—Early

Writings,

page 73.

12.

Of what did Elijah and his

work constitute a type? Mal. 4:5, 6.

NOTE.—"Today, in the spirit and power

of Elias and of John the Baptist, mes-

sengers of God's appointment are calling

the attention of a judgment-bound world

to the solemn events soon to take place

in connection with the closing hours of

probation and the appearance of Christ

Jesus as King of kings and Lord of

lords. . . .

"In these final hours of probation for

the 'sons of men, when the fate of every

soul is so soon to be decided forever, the

Lord of heaven and earth expects His

church to arouse to action as never before.

Those who have been made free in Christ

through a knowledge of precious truth, are

regarded by the Lord Jesus as His chosen

ones, favored above all other people on

the face of the earth; and He is counting

on them to show forth the praises of Him

who hath called them out of darkness into

marvelous

light."—Prophets and Kings,

page 716.

James's Solicitude for His

Brethren

13.

Summarize the message of the

epistle of James. James 1:2; 2:1; 3:1,

10; 4:11; 5:7, 10, 12.

NOTE.—Throughout his epistle James ex-

presses a tender and anxious solicitude for

the spiritual welfare of his brethren. Run-

ning through the epistle there is a constant

desire that they shall be spared the suffer-

ing that comes to those who follow the

ways of the unconverted heart.

14.

With what earnest invitation

does the epistle close? James 5:19, 20.

Compare Gal. 6:1, 2.

NOTE.—"Only the love that flows from

the heart of Christ can heal. Only he in

whom that loves flows, even as the sap in

the tree or the blood in the body, can

restore the wounded soul.

"Love's agencies have wonderful power,

for they are divine. The soft answer that

`turneth away wrath,' the love that 'suffer-

eth long, and is kind,' the charity that

`covereth a multitude of sins' . . . —would

we learn the lesson, with what power for

healing would our lives be gifted! How

life would be transformed, and the earth

become a very likeness and foretaste of

heaven

!"—Education,

page 114.

Questions for Meditation

Am I careful about the purity of my

language as one who expects to meet Jesus

soon should be?

How do I deport myself toward a

brother who has incurred my displeasure?

Is my heart filled with the same

yearning love for lost souls as that which

Jesus manifested when here on earth?

I 46 ]

THIRTEENTH SABBATH OFFERING

September 28, 1968

Inter-American Division

The Inter-American Division has been assigned the overflow of the

Thirteenth Sabbath Offering to be taken on September 28. This offering

will be divided equally between Andrews Memorial Hospital in Kingston,

Jamaica, and the Adventist Educational Center in Honduras.

In the light of a changing economy, facilities at Andrews Memorial

Hospital are now outmoded and inadequate. In order to meet modern

medical standards we must abandon the old clinic building and erect a

new medical-surgical wing, which will house examining rooms, clinical

quarters, a more adequate operating room, and a new delivery room. It will

also provide for more bed patients, raising the

•

bed capacity from the present

47 to 125. There is also an urgent need to build a dormitory for the nurses

in training.

The Adventist Educational Center in Honduras opened its doors in 1965.

Previously it was a self-supporting institution started by the late Dr. Joseph

L. Dewitt in 1962. Two years later it was turned over to the Honduras Mis-

sion as a donation. It is now being sponsored by the Adventist constituency

of Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala, with a total membership of about

13,00o. This new boarding school with very modest physical facilities is

attracting some of the finest young people in this part of Central America.

With 255 acres of ground, the Adventist Educational Center will be able

to expand to care for 45o students.

The young people of Central America urge you to give generously for

their school at Pefia Blanca, and missionary doctors appeal to you to help

Make Andrews Memorial Hospital a representative institution.

Lessons for the Fourth Quarter of 1968

Sabbath School members who have not received a senior

Lesson Quarterly

for

the fourth quarter of 1968 will be helped by the following outline in studying the

first lesson. The title of the series is "Lessons From the Lives of Old Testament

Prophets." The title of the first lesson is "Abraham, Friend of God—Part I." The

memory verse is Hebrews 11:8. The texts to be studied are:

Ques. 1. Gen. 20:7.

Ques. 2. Gen. 11:31; 12:1, 2 ;

Joshua 24:2, 3.

Ques. 3. Gen. 12:4 (first part) ;

Heb. 11:8.

Ques. 4. Gen. 12:4 (last part).

Ques. 5. Gen. 12:5 (middle part).

Ques. 6. Gen. 12:7, 8; 13:4, 18.

Ques. 7. Gen. 18:19; 26:5.

Ques. 8. Gen. 12:10.

Ques. 9. Gen. 12:11-16.

Ques. 10. Gen. 12:17-20. -

Ques. 11. Gen. 20:1-5, 13.

Ques. 12. Gen. 13:7-9.

Ques. 13. Rom. 12:10; Phil. 2:4.

Ques. 14. Gen. 14:13 (last part).

[ 47 3

EL SALVADOR

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Population Churches Memb. Memb.

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